Blog
The Credit Score-Mortgage Rate Connection
Are you thinking about buying a home? The prospect of being a homeowner is so exciting! However, before you dive headfirst into the whirlwind process, there's a step to consider: your credit score. Your credit score plays a pivotal role in determining the mortgage rate you'll qualify for, and understanding this relationship is vital for securing the best possible deal on your home loan. Let’s break down the ins and outs of how your credit score affects your mortgage rate and discuss ways to improve your creditworthiness. Read More
Senior Living: Smart Steps for Aging in Place
Are you thinking about the idea of “aging in place?” Well, it’s a pretty important decision, and the first thing you need to do is check if your current home can be adjusted to fit your needs as you get older. Let’s break it down for you. As we all get older, we face this... Read More
BUSTED: Uncovering 3 Common Workout and Fitness Myths
Fitness and the internet can be a dangerous place to be, especially when we are trying to figure out where to start. We are all guilty of seeing someone online and thinking to ourselves, "man, I'd love to look like they do," and thinking if we just do the exact same thing, we'll achieve the same results. Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it doesn't quite work like that. As a Certified Personal Trainer, I'm here to point you in the right direction and bust some of the most common fitness myths. Read More
Pickleball Basics: Where to Play at the Beach
If you’ve noticed that pickleball has taken over the scene among all the rec fields in your neighborhood and all your friends are obsessed, you wouldn’t be alone. Recent statistics show that pickleball has claimed the title of the swiftest-growing sport in the United States, with a nearly 40% boost in popularity over the last... Read More
Navigating the Pending Status: What It Really Means for Home Buyers and Sellers
So, your new home purchase is on the horizon with a “pending” status—congratulations! You’ve successfully navigated inspections, negotiations, and the offer has been accepted. But what does “pending” really mean? In this article we will be shedding light on the intricacies and offering valuable insights for both buyers and sellers on the pending status in... Read More
House Hunt Dilemmas: Choosing Between Surfer Vibes, Neighborhood Charm, and Beachside Dreams!
by Willow Logue Most of the discussions around buying and selling are financial. For many, owning a home is the single biggest investment they will make. Even if it’s not, understanding the finances is a very big part of the consideration. Lately, with current mortgage rates hovering around 7% and inventory low, all the headlines... Read More
Safeguarding Seniors: How to Spot and Prevent Elder Fraud
Elder fraud is no small concern, with the FBI reporting a staggering $900M+ loss for Americans aged 60 and above in 2020 due to scams. And this is not just limited to the U.S.; it’s a global concern as cybercriminals increasingly exploit online scams to target older adults, particularly those living independently. The financial implications... Read More
Navigating Freshman Year: Tips for a Successful Start
by Grace Bennett My first year at University of Central Florida coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and let me tell you, it turned everything on its head. The typical college experience I had envisioned was replaced by a mix of remote learning, social distancing, and face masks. It felt like a whirlwind... Read More
Mastering the College Application Process: A Guide to Success
Navigating the college application process involves a sequence of organized steps which includes standardized tests, personal statements, recommendation letters, and application submissions. Creating a compelling application package is essential for demonstrating academic excellence. While it’s undoubtedly an involved process, its structure remains fairly uniform across most colleges. In this article, we’ve tapered down the process... Read More
The House I Love is Under Contact. What Does That Mean?
That house you’ve been eyeing? Well, it’s officially labeled as “under contract” now. But don’t toss in the towel just yet—there might still be a glimmer of hope. So, what’s this “under contract” business all about? Gwinn Volen with The Volen Group says, “When a home goes under contract, it means the seller and buyer... Read More