Questions to ask when searching for a new home

Searching for a new home is so different from person to person. Some people rush into it like a Kardashian toward a camera. Others take their sweet time. They will walk the yard and see if the home has the proper ant count. I have put together some questions you may want to ask yourself when making such a big decision. Some make me sound like Captain Obvious, while others will make you say - why didn't I think of that.
Let's start with an easy one. What did you like most about you last house? That is a good start in making the new home a HOME. What did you like about your previous neighborhood? How far are you willing to drive and still be comfortable?  How soon could you move on a house if you identified one today? You can make an offer on a house contingent on the selling of your previous home, but those deals can be hard to put in place. There's too much uncertainly for each person down the line.

Do you have a pet? Will you need a home with a fence? Will neighborhood rules allow fencing? Pets are family members. We need to take their needs into consideration too. Somehow I put the pets ahead of the children. How are the schools? There should be sites to help you find out test scores for schools. Visit the schools to see if it will be a good fit.

There are a ton more things to ask, but this is a start. Remember, paint colors and worn carpet can be changed. Keep in mind the things that will make living somewhere comfortable. Plant roots and live the American dream.

Mortgages and the tax man!!

First of all, let me say I am not an accountant. I don't even play one on TV. (random reference from 80's commercial) As I write this, it's tax day. Cue Darth Vader music here. The U.S. government would like to see more home ownership. It's good for the economy all the way around. In an effort to move people down this path, they allow home owners with a mortgage to deduct from their taxable income interest they pay on a home. The amount will be determined by your income tax bracket. These deductions are especially beneficial in the early years of the loan. That is when you are paying very little on the principle and it's mostly interest.
Death and taxes are the only sure things. I can't help you much with death, but I can help you find a home and cut back on those taxes!!Do your research. Consult with an accountant. Don't keep paying your landlord's mortgage. Even though I am sure he is a great guy or gal.

Hey, your listing stinks!!

Studies have shown smells have a tremendous impact on how potential buyers feel about your house. Some folks go with candles, or plug-ins. There is even a line of thought that says bake some cookies. Make them feel at home. Perhaps even better than their home. If you are going to go that route--leave some for the agent!! Actually once I showed a house where they left cookies with a note saying to take one. The note also said we hope you enjoy our house as much as we do. It was a very nice touch. Here is a list of ways to avoid bad smells from Melissa Dittman Tracey. There are some very good thoughts here.
1- take out the trash after every meal.
2- clean refrigerators often.
3- change air filters regularly
4- do laundry regularly to avoid clothing pileups.
5- use the fan over the stove when cooking.
6- avoid cooking strong-smelling foods
7-bathe pets regularly, and clean bedding, toys, and litter boxes often.