Is it a Good Time to Invest in a Rental?
 If you've been watching the housing market's long-term slump, you've probably wondered if it's time to pick up an investment property. Here are the things you need to check before you make that commitment:
1. Your finances are solid and your emergency fund is in place. You have cash on hand to cover unexpected repairs. You're either paying cash for the property or your credit is sound enough to get a good loan.
2. The overall economic picture is stagnant or improving. If you wait for the big... Read More
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Positive Housing Market Trends
 Mortgage rates have hit record lows, which means housing affordability is at an all-time high. But are home buyers taking advantage of this opportunity? The latest real estate news suggests that potential home buyers are becoming actual home owners.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), pending home sales for November increased 7.3 percent to the highest level in 19 months. The Pending Home Sales Index assesses the health of the real estate market by evaluating housing contract activity. An index of 100 is considered healthy; the November index sits at 100.1, up from the previous year's... Read More
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Tax Resolutions for 2012
Courtesy of ARA Content
 Many people resolve to be wiser with their money in the new year, and it just so happens that being smart about your taxes is a good way to get started.
Whether it's your only resolution or just one of a few, sticking to your new year's tax resolutions throughout the whole year is the trick to being successful. And just like resolving to be healthy during the year will have you in better shape for the future, following your financial resolutions can make tax time far easier next year.
Use these tips to help build a successful approach to your tax resolution... Read More
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Four Simple Ways to Raise Your Credit Score
 Raising your credit score can improve your life in many ways. You'll have access to cheaper mortgage rates, you'll pay less for insurance, and you may even have a better shot at your dream job. Here's how to proceed:
1. Know what's going on.
Annual credit report.com allows you a free report from all three credit bureaus once a year. (Avoid other "free credit report" sites, which are really attempts to sell you something.) You're also entitled to a free report if you're... Read More
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Removing Popcorn Ceilings: Should You DIY?
 Popcorn ceilings were wildly popular in the 1960s –1980s, at least among residential contractors. Left untouched for years they become unsightly, but removing the material can be expensive and, sometimes, hazardous.
The bad news:
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