How to get the most return on your remodel investment. What upgrades are worth it.

Remodeling Magazine and the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) recently released their report comparing remodeling cost vs. value. The results vary depending on multiple factors including: region, quality of work, value of homes in your neighborhood, and when you plan to sell your home in relation to the completion of the project.

According to the overall findings, to boost the value of your home, start by upgrading the exterior. Replace your front door with a steel or fiberglass entry door to add curb appeal and value. Give your home a facelift and dramatically improve your facade by upgrading your existing siding. New garage doors will enhance your home aesthetically and functionally. The report also mentions that new windows save owners in energy costs and often add to resale value. When possible, the addition of a wood deck to outdoor living space is definitely a sought after amenity by potential buyers.

As for interior remodels, convert unused space into living areas. Finish the basement or convert the attic to a bedroom. Also, minor kitchen updates such as counter, cabinet, floor and sink upgrades are always big selling points.

To learn more from our trained team of professionals who could give you even more intelligent ideas on how to make the most of your remodeling budget.Give us a call today at 626-358-1858 or 626-962-7621.

Seven ways to build up your credit score to be eligible for the best interest rates.

Credit score requirements for loans are higher than they have been in the past, so a good credit score is more crucial than ever. In today's economy most lenders are looking for credit scores of 720 or higher to secure a low mortgage rate. Here are seven ways to build up your credit score so you can enjoy the best interest rates available. 

• Request your credit reports and assess the situation. Credit bureaus (www.experian.com, www.transusion.com, www.equifax.com) are required to provide you with a free credit report every year. Nationwide consumer reporting companies get their information from different sources, the data in your report from one company may not reflect the same data in your reports from the other two companies, so request all three. 
• Check to verify all of the information is correct. If there are any errors, contact the bureaus immediately. 
• Your payment history accounts for 35% of your score, so make sure payments are on time every month. 
• The amount owed is 30% of your score. A good rule is to use less than 10% of your credit available on each individual card. 
• The length of your credit history accounts for 15%, so maintain your accounts instead of closing them. You are not penalized for available credit. 
• New credit is 10% of your score and every time you apply for credit an inquiry is added to your report, which drops your score. 
• Types of credit used accounts for 10%. Installment loans like vehicle and personal loans demonstrate you can manage various long and short-term credits.

It is always advisable to speak with a knowledgeable lending representative. Let one of our agents refer you to someone who can best help guide you with your questions. Call us today.

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

Joann goes long! Did you catch the CENTURY 21 commercial at this year's Superbowl?