How Seniors Are Saving Hundreds (or Thousands) on Affordable Living Options

Finding affordable home care for seniors is easier than you think. Here are some of the best options for affordable senior living in an expensive world.

Naturally, we all want our older adults to stay at home and be in good health independently; however, that's not always possible. In addition, many seniors who have been independent all their lives are reluctant to move into a senior living community or nursing home.

Helping out our seniors is one way of ensuring they stay in a familiar environment while taking care of their needs. Of course, it's essential for primary caregivers also to get some respite from their duties — this is where affordable home care help comes in! Affordable home care can help you care for your older adult without burnout. Keep reading to learn eight helpful tips for finding cheap home care. 

1. Hire an independent in-home caregiver 

Hiring an independent caregiver for your senior can equal big savings in comparison to hiring one through an agency. In fact, you can save around 20-30% less by handling the hiring process yourself rather than using an agency to source your help. 

However, it's important to note that this method won't be suitable for everyone. This is because you're responsible for everything when you source your help privately. For example, if you're not comfortable conducting background checks and vetting your carer, you may want to consider using an agency. 

It's now easier than ever to stay in touch with loved ones. Modern technology can help you check on your older adult and ensure they are safe and comfortable. It can also give you a sense of security and reduce the amount of time your older senior needs an in-home caregiver.

For example, investing in monitoring or a medical alert system can help keep your senior family member safe, remind them to take their prescription medication on time, and stay connected with friends and family.

3. Learn About Available Tax Credits and Deductions

You may be eligible to receive state or federal tax credits for your caregiving expenses. Alternatively, if you claim your older adult as a dependent, you may be able to take tax deductions for caregiving expenses.

It's essential to seek advice from a tax accountant or advisors before filing for any credits or deductions to ensure you're fully informed about your options. Alternatively, you can search for an IRS-certified volunteer for free tax advice. 

 4. Consider Affordable Home Modifications 

Having a safe living environment makes it easier for older adults to stay mobile and independent. Stairlifts and shower chairs are just two of the many home modifications that can make caring for your senior easier.

Many states offer grants to homeowners who need to make their houses safer and more accessible. There are also non-profit organizations that provide financial help to low-income seniors. Search online to find out assistance programs in your area. 

There are many respite programs offered by states and non-profit organizations. These programs provide free or even low-cost care options for eligible seniors. Some organizations that offer respite programs include the VA, Alzheimer's Association, and National Family Caregiver Support Respite.

Healthy and nutritious meals are one of the most important aspects of taking care of an older adult. Eliminating the need to shop and cook meals can save a lot of expense and physical labor.

One way to ensure your senior has a healthy diet is to opt for a subsidized meal service such as Meals on Wheels. Meals on Wheels deliver nutritious meals to millions of vulnerable seniors and can help to reduce the number of hours you need to hire home care help. 

Utility bills are increasing and can be a significant burden on families — especially during the winter and summer. Fortunately, there are a couple of ways to reduce your energy costs.

For example, Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Programs (LIHEAP) are federally funded to help low-income families with their cooling and heating costs. In addition, some states also offer "weatherization assistance programs" that help cover the cost of making homes safer and more energy-efficient. 

If you need a break, there are many adult day programs that your older adult can visit during the day for care, companionship, and meals. Adult day programs are typically much cheaper than in-home carers, and some even offer transport to and from home. 

If you're looking for affordable home care for your senior, start your search online today and find adult day programs in your area. 

Seniors Love These Affordable and Professional House Cleaning Services

House cleaning is an inevitable task that can be a big challenge for seniors. Here are the best deals available on housekeeping services for seniors.

Stay independent and get affordable help with house cleaning services for seniors. Keep reading to find out the best deals on home cleaning services for seniors.

As we get older and lose mobility, it becomes more challenging to keep our homes clean and maintained. Everyday chores we used to do with ease, such as kneeling and reaching, become harder and more dangerous. Fortunately, there are many affordable home cleaning services available for seniors that make life easier and less hazardous. 

Professional cleaning services tackle everyday cleaning tasks, such as vacuuming and dusting, so you can relax and enjoy a tidy home. Here are the most affordable professional home cleaning services for seniors. 

If you're passionate about the environment and want an eco-friendly cleaning service, Cleaning Authority could be the perfect option! Cleaning Authority's professionally trained employees are dedicated to delivering a fast, quality clean using sustainable and environmentally-friendly products.

A satisfaction guarantee backs their cleaning service, and the organization has a four decades-long reputation for providing professional services.

To hire two professional cleaners from the Cleaning Authority, expect to pay around $75 to $90 per hour. Looking to make additional savings? Join the MyTCA program, which rewards clients with points to use against future cleaning services.

Dazzling Cleaning offers some spectacular deals for first-time customers, including up to 70% off and packages starting at just $9 an hour for 2 hours of professional cleaning.

Their user-friendly online system makes it easy to schedule your clean. Simply select a date and time that works for you, then choose the cleaners you want! It's as simple as that! Plus, you can rest assured that your home is in good hands, as all cleaners are professionally trained and background-checked!

Dazzling Cleaning operates a membership program that gives you access to exclusive deals and their unique voucher system. Don't need their service any more? Don't worry; you can cancel your membership at any time!

Molly Maid is one of the most well-known cleaning companies in the US. Delivering over 2 million jobs annually, Molly Maid offers quality professional cleaning services in almost every city and town in the US. 

Molly Maid is an excellent service if you value flexibility, as they require no contracts, unlike many of their competitors. Plus, they're fully insured and bring all their own cleaning equipment and supplies.

Molly Maids pricing starts at $75 per hour. For two Molly Maid cleaners' to clean a 2,000-square-foot home, you should expect to pay approximately $300. For extra savings, be sure to check out their sales and discounts — especially if you're a new customer!

Maid Right is a regional franchise that has operations throughout the US. This company is great if you need flexibility or want to give it a try before you decide if it's a fit, as it allows you to choose from one-time cleanings or regularly scheduled cleaning services.

All cleaning services come with a satisfaction guarantee, and their payment model is user-intuitive and hassle-free — simply put a credit card on a file, or you can pay your professional cleaner directly once the job is complete. Depending on the service you desire and your location, your cost may vary, so be sure to confirm charges before you schedule your cleaning.

Merry Maids is a professional cleaning service established in 1976. As a multinational organization, Merry Maids has over 900 locations across the US and over 1,400 across the rest of the world. Delivering comprehensive cleaning services to over 11 million customers, this company is the go-to for most households across the country. 

For two Merry Maid cleaners for a minimum of two hours, you should expect costs to start at $100. For a more accurate price, go to Merry Maids' official website and search for the service you need. Looking to save extra cash? Check out Merry Maid coupons for $100 off your first purchase!

If you're looking for a cheap and reliable home cleaning service, you're in luck! With a quick search on the internet, it's easy to find a professional cleaning service that meets your needs. Search online today and compare countless options, service types, and prices to find the best service for you. 

Find Big Discounts On Area Rugs

Retailers are currently offering major discounts on area rugs of up to 70%. Here are the best deals available online right now.

Looking for an area rug to tie your home decor together? You can find major discounts on area rugs online. Keep reading to learn about the best deals available right now.  

A well-placed area rug adds color and comfort to any room. Many people use area rugs to enhance their décor or create a statement piece that accentuates their interior design style. However you want to use it, there is an endless array of styles, patterns, and designs of area rugs available online.

If you're looking for a beautiful area rug, you're in luck! Right now, you can get incredible deals on excess area rug inventory. In fact, you could save as much as 50% or more on both large and small area rugs in any style. Many of these offers are available online only, so start your search for an affordable area rug today and find the perfect one to complement your home style!

Overstock.com offers unbeatable discounts on a wide selection of stylish area rugs. Whether your decor is contemporary rugs, bohemian or glamorous, Overstock is sure to have something that complements your style. 

Featuring an attractive Paisley and fleurettes design, the Madison Belle Vintage Boho Paisley Rug by Safavieh starts at just $50.45. With multiple sizes and color options, it's easy to find a fit for any room. Plus, parents and pet owners will love the kid and animal-friendly stain-resistant and anti-shedding material. Have an accident? No problem! Simply blot out stains with mild detergent and vacuum dry!

Another great area rug is the stylish Tulum Bora Moroccan Boho Chic Area Rug by Safavieh. Starting at just $39.01, this rug is highly durable and perfect for high-traffic areas. Plus, the modern boho-style area rug is available in multiple colors and features a chic geometric pattern. 

Wayfair is known for its huge selection of discount furniture, and their area rugs are no exception! With a shape and style to fit every home and need, Wayfair is sure to have the stylish area rug you're looking for. Featuring top-quality products from both small, independent manufacturers and international brands, Wayfair is one of the best places to find affordable rug deals. 

Depending on the type of rug you need, prices at Wayfair range from under $75 to over $400. For instance, right now, you can get the Indira Oriental Green Area Rug by Mistana for 46% off — starting at just $99.99, reduced from $184.99. 

Alternatively, the striking Giacinto Oriental Area Rug by World Menagerie is on sale for only $106.99. This area rug is ultra-stylish and effortlessly timeless — perfect for making a statement in any living area. Featuring warm shades of deep charcoal and olive green, this area rug is soft underfoot and stain-resistant, so you don't have to worry about spills!

Want to get an even better deal? Right now, if you spend $150 or more on your Wayfair credit card, you get an additional $25 off your order and free delivery!

Most people don't realize that they can find high-quality, affordable area rugs at Home Depot! However, as one of the country's top home-improvement retailers, Home Depot offers a large range of stylish area rugs for both indoors and outdoor. To find the best deals, we recommend checking out the area rug section on their website online. 

For a truly versatile and durable rug, opt for one that's washable. For example, the cozy Sheepskin Faux Furry Grey area rug by Latepis is currently on sale for $175.23, reduced from $318.60! This rug is machine-washable and features a non-slip backing and super-soft underfoot high pile.

Alternatively, if you're looking for something a little more colorful, check out the Candy Green Medallion Area Rug by Artistic Weavers. Reduced from $410.00 to $281.60, this machine washable rug features a traditional pattern that epitomizes timeless style. Plus, the naturally stain and fade-resistant material makes this area rug super durable and family-friendly — even with pets and small children!

If you're looking for a beautiful area rug to help spruce up your living space, look no further. It's easy to find attractive, durable, and affordable area rugs with a simple search online. Whether you want to protect your floor, make a statement or simply warm up the space, there are great savings to be had on a wide variety of area rugs online.

Find Low-Cost Swimming Pools This Summer

You don't have to be a millionaire to enjoy the luxuries in life. Swimming pools don't cost as much as you may think. Find the best options for low-cost swimming pools in your area.

Everyone loves to escape the summer heat with a cool dip in the pool. You can't help but feel relaxed when you're submerged in an endless stretch of cool water. Going for a swim is one of the best ways to relieve stress, improve physical fitness, and even learn a new skill. Unfortunately, with the average cost of an in-ground swimming pool starting at around $30,000, many homeowners' dream of having their own in-ground pool is out of reach. Luckily, there are other ways you can enjoy a private pool while saving thousands of dollars! Here's a look at how to get a low-cost swimming pool this summer. And don't worry if you're on a tight budget; we've got some ideas for you.

In-ground pools might be the most desirable type of swimming pool, but they aren't the only option for homeowners who want to take a dip. In fact, you can get in-ground pool alternatives for as little as $45! With a cheaper swimming pool, you get to enjoy all of the activities you would in an in-ground pool at just a fraction of the cost! There are a number of above-ground pools on the market, including safe and durable molded-in-place pools and portable inflatable ones.

You don't have to settle for an average above-ground pool. You can find a high-quality setup for a great price. Affordable swimming pools have become more accessible due to retailers such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart.

Three of the lowest-cost swimming pools you can buy online include;

120 Deluxe Family Swimming pool | Amazon, $45

Intex Easy Set Inflatable Swimming Pool | Walmart, $79

Bestway Steel Pro Above Ground Swimming Pool | Walmart, $289.99

Inflatable swimming pools are a quick and affordable alternative to traditional above-ground pools. They're easy to assemble, and they fit easily into small yards. All you need is space, a flat surface, access to a water hose, an air pump, and some time to set up! Inflatable pools are made from a thick vinyl that is puncture-resistant and very durable.

Other advantages of cheap inflatable pools include:

Quick and simple to set up -Lightweight and easy to assemble, you can enjoy inflatable pools quickly.

Easy to store - Because they are so flexible and lightweight, you can easily store inflatable pools or carry them with ease.

Small Space-Friendly - Inflatable pools don't have a lot of space compared to in-ground pools, which makes them convenient if you have a small yard. 

Inflatable pools start as low as $25 at retailers like Walmart. Plus, you can find inflatable pools in almost any size or shape, so it's easy to find one that meets your needs and style preference.

Framed pools are a little bit more expensive than inflatable; however, they tend to last longer, are sturdier, and have several more functions. In addition, framed pools are usually also larger than inflatable pools. In addition, because they have a metal frame, as long as it's built on level ground, they can't leak, sag, spill, or burst like an inflatable pool.

Since they are more stable than inflatable above-ground swimming pools, framed pools are safer and more suitable for adults and older kids. However, it's essential to keep in mind that you should supervise all children while around water.

Other advantages of a framed pool include:

Affordable - Framed pools are much more budget-friendly than traditional in-ground pools. 

Simple to set up - Easy to set up and dismantle framed pools are perfect for people who want access during the summer only

You can find cheap framed pools starting at $110 at retailers like Walmart. In fact, you can save even more money by looking out for coupons and offers from retailers. 

As summer starts and the weather heats up, a refreshing swimming pool is a great way to relax, cool down, and enjoy the fun with your family. If you're looking for a new pool this summer, you don't need to break the bank! Plenty of online retailers offer cheap swimming pool options, from inflatable to framed above-ground pools. Start your search today and find affordable swimming pools online and in-store.  

First Time Homebuyers Guide: Grants, Loans, and Assistance Programs

Getting a home loan as a low-income American is a lot easier than you might think. Keep reading to learn more about FHA loans and homeowner grants that could save you thousands of dollars!

FHA Loans and grant programs make it much easier for low-income Americans to purchase a home. Even if you have a less than stellar credit score or don't have a 10% down payment, you can still qualify for a federally backed loan. Keep reading to find out some helpful information about federally funded grants and housing programs. 

FHA Loans were designed to make it easier for low-income Americans to get on the property ladder. FHA loans have less strict lending requirements than most other traditional lenders. For example, with an FHA loan, you can have a downpayment as low as 3.5% of the loan amount value and a credit score as low as 580.  

FHA Loans are the ideal option for first-time buyers who want to get on the property ladder but haven't yet saved a substantial down payment. FHA loans can also be a great option for people with a credit score of less than 600, who conventional lenders would typically not lend too.  

To qualify for an FHA Loan, you must meet some of the following criteria:

You must have a steady income and can provide proof of employment.

First-time homebuyers may soon be eligible to receive a cash grant toward their new purchase. The Down Payment Toward Equity Act enables first-time home buyers to claim a free $25,000 grant if they meet certain criteria. This program is designed to assist renters in purchasing homes and getting their foot on the property ladder.

Your income must be no greater than 20% above the median household income for your metro area to be eligible for this grant. For instance, if the median income in your area is $30,000, then your income can not exceed $36,000. 

If you need help with your accommodation, Rent Payment Assistance could be a solution. The Housing Voucher Program provides low-income Americans with a voucher that enables them to rent corporate complexes and private property.

The Housing Voucher Program is helpful, as it provides more freedom to choose where you'd like to live. However, it's important to note that wherever you choose, the company managing the property must be an approved property owner. A local Public Housing Agency (PHA) typically determines the amount of assistance provided. The PHA will assess local market prices in your area and set a base voucher amount. Then, 30% of your monthly income will be deducted from the awarded voucher amount to determine the monthly assistance you'll receive.

As a renter, you can decide whether to rent somewhere that costs the amount awarded or rent another that's more expensive, assuming they can afford to cover the difference.

The eligibility requirements for this program include:

Meeting your specific state's low-income requirements

As with most government-subsidized housing, it's important to remember that you may have to wait several months before you can secure an apartment with rental payment assistance. 

If you live in a rural area, you can apply for a private subsidized housing program. This particular program is awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and allows landlords to receive tax incentives in exchange for offering low-income families discounted rental prices. 

Eligibility requirements for this program include:

Your monthly income level is at or below the USDA's income limit for your area

Providing evidence that your monthly rent is above 30% of your monthly income

The property owner must also meet requirements, which can include a background or credit check

To learn more about the Rural Rental Assistance program, you should check out the USDA Service Tool and reach out to your local USDA Rural Field Development office. 

If you've ever been in a bind, stuck thinking that you can't make your next rent payment, or trying to figure out how to buy a home as a first-time home buyer. There are local programs that can help, and one of these programs may be able to provide you with the help and financial assistance you need. Whether it's a temporary re-occupancy program or even possibly a grant for down payment assistance, the local housing authority can provide you with the ability to become self-sufficient.

Talk to your local Housing Authority agent today and see which programs best fit your needs.

Is It Really Possible To Replace a Roof At No Cost?

Did you know that there are government grants that can help replace or repair your old roof for free? Find out how much you can save and how you might be eligible to get a new roof for free.

A roof is a serviceable, functional part of any home. It keeps you and your family safe from harsh weather and also improves your home's appearance.

Nonetheless, your roof can be damaged by factors such as hail, fallen tree branches, extreme weather, and U.V. rays. Roofs can be expensive to repair, renovate or replace, especially for low-income families. Fortunately, there are specific roof replacement grants that you can take advantage of. Keep reading to learn more about some of the ways you can replace your old roof for no cost!

Did you know that the U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a Housing Preservation Grant to low-income families? To be eligible, your income must be under a certain threshold, and you must live in a rural area. The House Preservation Grant is typically administered via a local non-profit organization that focuses on assisting low-income families in the community. 

You can use such assistance to reduce the cost of repair or replacement of your roof, for example, if it is a health or safety hazard. If you're interested in this grant; you should contact your local USDA Rural Development field office to learn more. 

The Weatherization Assistance Program is administered by the United States Department of Energy, and it is one of the most well-known grant programs for roof repair and replacement. If you're a low-income family, the weatherization assistance program could help you reduce your home's heating and cooling expenses and improve the general habitability and health and safety of your home. Up to $5 billion in grants are distributed each year by state and local governments to help low-income families improve their homes.

To be eligible for this program, you must meet one of the following criteria:

Be a low-income family with dependent children

You are also automatically eligible if your family receives either Supplemental Insurance Income or Aid to Families with Dependent Children. 

Single-Family Housing Repair Grants and Loans

Similar to the Housing Preservation Grant, Single-Family Housing Repair Grants and Loans are sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). These grants finance low-income families to enable them to make needed home repairs — including roof repair and replacement.  

Also referred to as the Section 504 Home Repair Program, these government grants cover home renovations such as roof replacement and other improvements that affect the habitability of a property. These grants and loans aim to improve the safety, health, and quality of life of low-income, disadvantaged people. To be eligible for the loan, you must be an existing homeowner with an income lower than 50% of your area's median income.

Handicapped Accessibility Improvement Program (HAIP)

The Handicapped Accessibility Improvement Program (HAIP) is an amazing grant that offers up to $75,000 per household for families and individuals who require better accessibility in their homes. This grant can be used to make your home safer and more comfortable to live in, especially if you have mobility issues or are a senior.

You may qualify for this grant if you meet any of the following:

You have owned and lived in your home for at least three years

You have no outstanding local, state, or federal taxes

You meet the required income-based criteria 

Single Family Residential Rehabilitation Program (SFRRP) 

Do you have mobility issues or another physical impairment? The Single-Family Residental Rehabilitation Program could help you. SFRRP offers support for roof repairs or renovations to those with mobility or other physical challenges. 

The grant can be used to address home repairs, such as roofing, gutter work, and even windows replacement. The aim of SFRRP is to provide safe, habitable homes that are accessible for the physically impaired. It also gives homeowners an opportunity to ensure their home meets the building code. 

SFRRP offers up to $20,000 in roof repair grants to repair or replace your roof or gutters. This plan is a great option for homeowners who are living with a disability and who cannot afford to have their roofs replaced.

If you're passionate about the environment and want to save yourself some money, consider combining your new roof with a grid-tied solar project. There are many programs available for homeowners who want to finance their new roof and make use of a solar project. The best part is that many homeowners are able to offset the cost of their new roof with the income generated. 

Another alternative to consider is leasing your roof out to a third-party solar system for a monthly rental fee. This can help substantially lower your costs for a completely new roof and enable you to generate solar energy for up to 25 years! However, it's important to remember that depending on your location and your type of roof, your options for leasing or taking advantage of a solar project may vary. It's important to research your options thoroughly before making a commitment.  

If you're living with an old or damaged roof that needs replacing, you have options! Start your search online today and find out which roof replacement grants you're eligible for. With a little research, you could save thousands of dollars on your new roof. 

How Much Is My House Worth?

If you're a homeowner, you might be wondering how much your house is worth. Keep reading to learn more about how you can find the value of your home.

Across the US, the real estate market is hotter than ever. If you're a homeowner wondering whether you should take advantage of this seller's market, there are a few different factors to consider. Although it's impossible to predict exactly how much someone may be willing to pay for your home, with a little research, it is possible to get an estimated value.

If you're thinking about selling your house, it's important to understand your local market and how much your property may be worth. In this article, we're explaining how you can learn more about the real estate market and find out the value of your home. 

When finding out the value of your home, it's essential to understand the difference between "market value" and "appraised value." 

Market Value: Market value is the amount prospective buyers are willing to pay for your home. You can get an idea of the market value of your home by looking at similar home sales in your area. This can help you gauge how much buyers may be willing to pay for your home.

Appraised value: Appraised value is the value a licensed appraiser assesses your home to be worth. The appraised value is important to mortgage lenders because it helps them determine how much they will lend a borrower. 

It's important to note that the market value and appraised value are not always the same — especially in a hot real estate market. Buyers are often willing to pay more than the appraised value if there is a low inventory of homes or if they really want the home. 

There are many online valuation tools that can provide a fast estimation of your home's potential value. These tools use a specific algorithm to gather and analyze publicly available data, such as local sales and county tax records.

While home value estimators can be a great way to get a quick estimate, they are limited in accuracy. This is because they rely solely on publicly available data and may not take into consideration recent upgrades or high-end finishings. In addition, if your home is unique or there are few recent sales in your area, an algorithm-backed valuation may be accurate. 

If you're thinking about remortgaging your home or selling it, you might decide it's a good idea to order a professional appraisal. An appraisal is a professional objective opinion formed by a licensed appraiser. To create an appraisal report, the appraiser visits your property to assess its condition, finishings, and other important factors. They also use publicly available data and recent home sales to determine the most accurate value. 

A comparative market analysis (CMA) is typically used by real estate agents to determine the value of a home. Agents use recent sales data and knowledge of the local market to create a report that provides buyers or sellers with a home estimate. 

CMA's tend to be more accurate than online estimate tools; however, they do depend heavily on an agent's knowledge and experience. Fortunately, CMAs are often offered as a complimentary service by real estate agents, so you can request several to compare. 

Check Your Local County Appraiser's Website

If you're interested in finding out your home's value from a tax perspective, checking your local county appraiser's website can be a great idea. County auditors assess the value of your home for property tax purposes. This data is helpful because it's easy to access and provides an objective opinion. 

Check the Federal Housing Finance Agency's House Price Index (HPI) Calculator

If you want to understand property value trends in your area, the Federal Housing Finance Agency's House Price Index (HPI) calculator can be a useful tool. Using historical mortgage data, this calculator projects how home values in your area may change according to the appreciation rate. As this calculator utilizes data from millions of home sales, homeowners can use it to compare the affordability and cost of living in certain neighborhoods. 

However, it's important to note that although this calculator can be useful, it will not estimate the market value of your particular house. Rather, you should use it to help understand housing appreciation over time. 

Buyers Guide: How Much House Can I Afford?

If you're considering buying a home, you need to move fast . Today's real estate market is hot, and housing inventory is low. Keep reading to find out how much house you can afford. 

When you buy a house, how much home you can afford will be one of the most important factors in finding your dream place. But how can you find out how much a house is affordable? There are several different factors that affect affordability. In this article, we're taking a look at ways you can determine the optimal home price for your budget.

What Factors Help Determine Your House Budget?

There are several key factors you need to consider when determining your home budget, including:

Income – Your income helps provide a baseline for the amount you can afford to pay each month. This includes any money that you receive on a regular basis, for example, a salary, investments, or alimony. 

Available Cash – This is the amount of liquid funds you have available to cover your down payment and closing costs. Available cash can come from a number of sources, including savings and investments.

Debt and expenses – Your outstanding debts and monthly expenses, such as credit cards, loans, car payments, groceries, utility bills, and insurance, should be considered.

Credit Score – Your credit score and credit history will heavily influence your ability to secure a home loan.  

The debt-to-income ratio compares your total monthly debts (including things such as your mortgage payments, insurance, and property tax dues) to your monthly gross monthly income.

If you have a higher credit score, you may be eligible for a higher ratio, but in general, your monthly expenses shouldn't exceed 28% of your monthly income.

For instance, if your potential monthly mortgage payment is $1500 a month (including taxes and insurance), and you have a monthly income of $5000 before taxes, your DTI ratio is 30%. 

To find out what your housing budget is, simply reverse the process by multiplying your income by 0.28. For example, if your income is $4000 per month, this would allow for an approximate mortgage payment of $1,120 to achieve a DTI ratio of 28% DTI.

What House Can I Afford With An FHA loan?

An FHA loan is a government-backed loan guaranteed by the Federal Housing Agency. FHA loans are a good option for people with lower credit scores or those with a small down payment. With an FHA loan, you qualify with a down payment of as little as 3.5%  

However, it's important to note that an FHA loan requires an upfront mortgage insurance payment of 1.75% of the loan amount and an annual mortgage insurance premium of anywhere from 0.45 percent to 1.05 percent. This means that one a home worth $250,000, you would need to pay a minimum downpayment of $8750, plus an upfront mortgage insurance payment of $4221.

How much house can I afford with a VA loan?

If you're a veteran, you may qualify for a VA loan. A VA loan is a mortgage-backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. VA loans are especially beneficial as they do not require a downpayment, don't require monthly mortgage insurance, and have lower interest rates than many other loan types. 

To receive a VA loan, you must acquire a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). A COE shows potential mortgage lenders you approach that you're eligible to apply for a VA home loan. You must meet one of the following to be eligible to receive a COE:

Served 181 days of active service during peacetime.

Served 90 consecutive days of active service during wartime.

Served over six years of service with the National Guard or Reserves or, alternatively, served 90 days under Title 32 (with at least 30 of those being consecutive).

Unlike other federally backed mortgages, VA loans do not have a limit on how much you can borrow. 

Getting a pre-approval letter from your lender is the best way to determine how much home you can afford. This easy and free process determines a preliminary mortgage amount available for your purchase and includes a rate quote for that loan amount. This step is critical in determining your potential loan costs and your budget. In addition, a pre-approval letter can also help your realtor find a home comfortably within your budget.

To get a pre-approval letter, you simply have to reach out to your lender and provide them with some basic details, such as your annual income and social security number. Your lender will run some checks and determine how much they are willing to let you borrow tentatively. It's important to note that a pre-approval letter is not a guarantee of a loan. 

If you're considering buying a house, start your search online today and find out how much house you can afford. 

What's the Best Way to Find Affordable Lawn Care?

Keeping your lawn in tip-top shape doesn't have to break the bank. Keep reading to learn how you can find affordable lawn care. 

Keeping your lawn green and tidy isn't an easy task. It requires regular maintenance, plenty of TLC, and a lot of water. Fortunately, you can save big bucks and time by finding affordable lawn care. Keep reading to learn more about the best way to find cheap lawn care in your area. 

The easiest way to take care of your lawn is to hire a local lawn care service. A reputable lawn care service will do all the hard work for you so that you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn with little effort. 

In particular, a lawn care service is beneficial for elderly people and those who have mobility issues. For example, if you find it challenging to take care of your lawn and landscaping yourself, a reliable lawn care service is the perfect way to stay on top of it. Rather than spending your weekends in the hot sun tending to your yard, you can hire professionals to help keep your lawn looking tip-top. 

Lawn care companies can provide you with a variety of services, including fertilization, pesticide treatment, and leaf removal. 

It's important to remember that lawn care services differ in what they offer but can include: 

Lawn care professionals are knowledgeable about all things lawn-related. They'll let you know when it's time to mow your lawn or schedule a treatment if it's needed. They'll also provide you with advice on how to keep your lawn looking its best on an ongoing basis.

Lawn care can be expensive – especially if your yard is large or you have a lot of landscaping. Fortunately, hiring a professional lawn care service is more affordable than you might think.

Lawn care service costs vary depending on your needs and where you're located. Homeowners should expect to pay anywhere from little as $50 to $210 per visit. To find the most affordable professional lawn care service, you should aim to pay only for the services you need. 

For instance, not every lawn needs aeration, landscaping, or seeding. If your loan is more high maintenance and requires additional services other than mowing, you should expect to pay a little more. 

To save money, when considering which lawn care service is best for your budget, you should only choose the services you need most. Be sure to ask potential companies what they include in their service specifically. If possible, you can exclude certain services you don't need and ask for a lower price.

Ask About New Customer Discounts or Coupons

Many companies offer welcome discounts to new customers — for example, your first service may be free. Alternatively, some lawn care companies offer discounts for repeat customers. If you're not sure whether a discount or coupon is available, search online or ask the company directly. Going direct to the source could save you hundreds of dollars! 

Find a Professional Lawn Care Service Online

Finding the most affordable lawn care service has never been easier. With one click, you can compare and price a myriad of different services in just a few seconds. In fact, there are websites dedicated to providing information about local lawn care services — think of them as a modern online neighborhood network! 

Not all lawn care services are created equal, so when searching online for affordable lawn care services, it's essential to compare several different options. Be sure to look at their reviews and credentials to find out how satisfied other customers are with the service. 

In addition, you should get a free quote before hiring any lawn service company. The cheapest quote doesn't necessarily equate to the best service, so be sure to find out exactly what the quote includes. For example, do they charge extra for fertilizer? Does the price change throughout the seasons? It's also important to find out whether you'll be expected to provide the equipment and lawn care materials or whether the company offers this as part of their service. 

If you're someone who doesn't have the time or ability to take care of your lawn regularly, a professional lawn care service could be the perfect solution for you! Find an affordable professional lawn care service online today with a simple search! 

Renting vs. Buying: How To Choose Which Is Right For You

The real estate market is hot right now. If you’ve been weighing up your options between renting or buying a house, keep reading to find out the best option.

Deciding whether to rent or buy real estate will play a crucial role in your future finances. Buying property is a huge financial commitment that can be pretty daunting. It’s important to be sure that you’re making the best decision for your future. With conflicting real estate advice on every corner of the internet, it can be difficult to decide between buying or renting property. Keep reading to learn more about the financial implications of renting versus buying real estate.

Renting is the perfect option for people who want their own space but don’t want the commitment of owning a home. When you rent a property, you can move whenever you want, you don’t need to worry about maintenance and repairs, and you’re not tied down by a mortgage. 

In addition, renting a property helps you escape many of the expenses that homeowners have to deal with, including:

Property taxes: If you own a home, you have to pay property tax. Property tax varies depending on the location of your home. In general, the higher your home value, the more property tax you’ll have to pay. 

No maintenance: If you rent a home, the landlord is responsible for the general maintenance and upkeep of the property. For example, if the roof is damaged, you won’t have to fork up for the repair. 

No down payment needed: Apart from a security deposit and first month’s rent, as a renter, you won’t need to find a large down payment. 

The flip side of renting is that you don’t have a stake in the property, and therefore you can’t build home equity. This can make building long-term wealth more difficult. Renters also typically cannot make significant modifications to a property, and changes they do make must be put back when the lease ends. In addition, as a renter, your monthly rent is controlled by your landlord and could change at any time. If your rent increases too much, you may have to look for another property to rent. 

 When you buy a house and build home equity, you have a stake in the greatest investment of all time: your own home. This can be highly rewarding, and a means to build generational wealth. 