Suzanne's Blog

FHA vs. Conventional Loan: Which Mortgage Is Right for You?

By Suzanne Volkman | Jul 13, 2023

FHA versus conventional loan: If you need a mortgage to buy a house, you may find yourself weighing these two options. What’s the difference, and which one is right for you? While the majority of homebuyers might assume they should get a conventional home loan, about 40% end up with FHA loans, which are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. […]

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Interest Rates : A Short History

By Suzanne Volkman | Jul 13, 2023
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What prospective homebuyers should do until interest rates drop

By Suzanne Volkman | Jul 13, 2023

In this high-interest-rate environment, many prospective homebuyers are put off by high mortgage costs. Homes that might have been in your budget in the past might no longer be affordable when accounting for monthly interest payments. But that doesn’t mean the situation is totally out of your control. While mortgage timing can be tricky, you […]

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Unveiling the Key Trends in the 2023 Cost vs. Value for Home Improvements

By Suzanne Volkman | Jun 28, 2023

As a REALTOR®, it’s my responsibility to stay on top of the latest trends and developments in the housing market. Home improvements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a property but also significantly impact its overall value. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key trends shaping the cost versus value […]

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What’s the Difference Between Your Home’s Market and Assessed Value?

By Suzanne Volkman | Jun 23, 2023

Understanding your home’s value is an important part of knowing your net worth, what you’ll likely receive if you sell the property and how the local real estate market is faring. Home value is also an integral part of determining how much property tax you’re required to pay the local and state government annually. But depending on […]

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Five Ways to Build Home Equity

By Suzanne Volkman | Jun 8, 2023

Whether you currently own a home or are thinking of purchasing one, you may be looking for ways to build equity. Home equity is the overall difference between the amount you owe on your mortgage loan and your home’s market value. Home equity can be used to take out a loan, invest, build long term […]

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Tips for a Successful Yard Sale

By Suzanne Volkman | Jun 8, 2023

Yard sales are a great way to convert items that you hardly ever use into cash that can be saved, donated, or put towards a large purchase. However, a successful yard sale takes a considerable amount of preparation and planning. Here are some tips on how to hold a great yard sale. Set a Goal […]

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State Farm, Allstate stop selling home insurance to new customers in CA

By Suzanne Volkman | Jun 8, 2023

State Farm and Allstate have announced they will no longer sell new home insurance policies in California because of wildfire risks and an increase in construction costs. Here are some facts: State Farm and Allstate are not leaving the California Insurance Market:  State Farm and Allstate will continue to service and renew policies of existing clients […]

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Should you rent or buy? High home prices, mortgage rates challenge the American dream of homeownership

By Suzanne Volkman | May 15, 2023

When Greg Morano proposed to his girlfriend Kayla Lewis, he knew their next big decision as a couple was looming: should they rent or buy their first home together? The couple spent months discussing the size, style and location of apartments before considering homeownership. “I think that’s the dream everybody grows up with — it’s one […]

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