*By John Boe From luxury automobiles to high-tech electronics, the phrase “made in Japan” is synonymous with quality and reliability. The Japanese have a well-deserved reputation for their relentless pursuit of excellence, but it wasn’t always that way. At the end of WWII, many Japanese cities lay in ruin,…
A: You can get a home loan from several different sources—a credit union, commercial bank, mortgage company, finance company, government agency, thrift (which includes savings banks and savings & loan associations), mortgage broker, and even the seller. Note, however, that many lenders have tightened their credit standards in light of…
Homebuyers should pay close attention and avoid money pit houses as the rules of navigating local real estate continue to change. These rapidly changing rules are happening in every area of the home buying process. Some of these rules have to do with the condition of the homes themselves. Bank…
*By Dr. Judith S. Black Helping older family members stay safe, secure and independent begins with preparation in the home. Learn how to help seniors stay safe and healthy by following these tips: Since snow and ice and other adverse weather conditions raise the risk of falls during the winter…
Mortgage rates hit new record lows last week with the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropping to 3.50 percent, according to Bankrate.com’s weekly national survey. The average 30-year fixed mortgage has an average of 0.40 discount and origination points. The average 15-year fixed mortgage rate slipped to 2.84 percent and…
Prior to the 1950s, clover was a part of most grass seed mixes for lawns. Clover’s ability to reseed itself and stay green was considered an advantage in the pursuit of a beautiful, green lawn. Over the years, lawn seed mixes have generally dropped the clover and gone with all…