Brian Ripp's Blog

If you are getting ready to purchase a home, you probably have heard the terms prequalified and preapproved.  Many buyers think these terms are the same thing, but they are quite different. Getting prequalified consists of a discussion between you and a loan officer.  A loan officer collects info...

The word “mud” might not sound inviting, but a mudroom can actually be a welcoming – and useful – space.  Mudrooms, which serve as a transition between the outdoors and the inside of a home, are traditionally found in cold, snowy climates as a place to change out of wet clothes and shoes.  But, w...

Low interest rates have enticed thousands of Americans to seek funding for a new home or to refinance an existing mortgage.  This surge has created a demand for mortgage brokers, whose job it is to help borrower’s complete applications and secure loan rates.  It is estimated that brokers process ...

As housing markets begin to recover, more homeowners are focusing on improving their kitchens and bathrooms, according to a recent survey by the American Institute of Architects.  Kitchens have not increased significantly in size, but more than half of residential architects surveyed say they are...

Americans say they feel safe, but many don’t always take the necessary steps to ensure their safety, according to a recent survey by ADT, which explored homeowners’ security behavioral patterns. While Americans rated their home safety at an average of 85 out of 100, just 30 percent of those who o...

Virtual tours and photo slide shows are great tools for any Realtor, and they can make or break a sale.  But a home that looks neglected on camera won’t shine in a potential buyer’s eyes.  If you’re thinking of listing your home, help your agent make your home stand out on video & photos by prepa...

The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is alerting California consumers who are considering hiring a painter, landscaper, or any other type of construction contractor that it is illegal to ask for or accept a down payment of more than 10% of the total home improvement contract price or $1,000...

In a recent study, Livable Community Indicators for Sustainable Aging in Place, MetLife Mature Market Institute and the Stanford Center on Longevity identified 7 characteristics of housing communities that will allow older adults to age in place. Accessible and affordable housing: Zoning laws sho...

If you think you’d enjoy watching a playful bunch of colorful, melodious guests frolic in your yard, why not install a birdbath?  Here are some tips to attract and protect birds; Birds prefer a shallow pool of about 3 inches or less.  If you already have a birdbath that may be too deep, you can s...

Some homebuyers are capable of purchasing a higher-priced home – as long as it’s fairly new construction that will save them money on maintenance and upkeep costs, according to research by the National Association of Home Builders.  The study analyzed utility, maintenance, property tax and insura...