A Guide to Butcher Block Countertops
Heres everything you need to know about butcher block countertops…The BasicsThere are three different types of butcher block counters to consider:Edge grain is made by stacking planks together so the side of each piece is seenEnd grain is built using square-shaped pieces that give it a grid-like appearance.Face grain is made by laying slabs of wood flat together so the width of each plank is vis...
5 Financial Tips for First-Time Parents
So a babe is on the way? Congrats! Along with the chaos of, well, everything that is to come, your finances are about to experience an upheaval, as well. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, it will cost upwards of $245,000 to raise a child born in 2013 to the age of 18"and this does not include college. Feeling that bank account burn already? Below are five tips for rocking your budge...
What to Do If You Find an Error on Your Credit Report
Lenders look at your credit report to determine whether you qualify for a loan or credit card. Inaccurate information could lead to an unfavorable interest rate or outright denial of your application. You should periodically request copies of your credit reports and check them for errors. If you find a mistake, act immediately to have it corrected so it doesn’t hurt your chances of obtaining cre...
5 Design Features for a Luxurious Shower
Here are 5 features to create the perfect shower area in your home…Dual ShowerheadsDual showerheads allow for a spacious shower area where couples can go about their routine without having to wait.Rain ShowerRain showers create a relaxing and luxurious feeling of water cascading down on you.Vitamin C-Infused ShowerVitamin C-infused showers reduce chlorine levels in your water and leave your skin...
Making Financial Lessons a Family Tradition
Teaching children manners and how to tie their shoes is one thing, but financial lessons are often pushed to the wayside until it’s too late. Budgeting and financial planning should be a focus in every household. Whether you are passing along your lessons to your children, nieces or nephews, keeping financial sense in the family can have longstanding benefits.Here are some financial lessons you ...
Quick Fixes for Your Common Household Problems
It may seem like there’s always something going on as a homeowner, from silencing a squeaky hinge to unclogging a temperamental toilet. But many household problems can be easily fixed without calling a repair service.A can of WD-40, a toilet plunger and a bottle of vinegar are great basics to keep on hand for easing sticky fittings, clearing the toilet and making short work of common stains. Her...
Should You Ask Someone to Co-Sign Your Mortgage?
If you’ve found the house of your dreams but are having trouble qualifying for a mortgage, you could ask another person to co-sign your mortgage. Here are some things to consider.Reasons to Have a Co-SignerBuying your first house, high credit card balances or a poor credit history are all valid reasons for having a co-signer.Co-Signer ConsiderationsIf you ask someone to co-sign a mortgage, expec...
How to Get Extra Cash in Your Pocket
No matter what you’re saving for, having some extra breathing room in your budget is important. Whether you’re putting money away for a down payment or a new car"or looking to build an emergency fund that can get you out of a financial jam"we could all use a little extra cash in our pocket.While saving a chunk of change can seem daunting if you’re just getting started, setting money aside ca...