Not All Homeowners Need to Report Rental Income to the IRS: Who Qualifies for Tax Exemptions?

Owning a home in the United States comes with various tax responsibilities, but not all homeowners are required to report rental income to the IRS. While most property owners must declare earnings from rental properties, there are specific exemptions that allow certain homeowners to bypass this obligation. By understanding the tax rules, homeowners can determine Continue reading

Will Mortgage Rates Drop in February 2025? Key Predictions and Market Insights Without a Fed Meeting

Mortgage interest rates in the United States have remained elevated in recent months, impacting both prospective homebuyers and those looking to refinance their loans. The Federal Reserve’s decision to maintain its benchmark interest rate due to persistent inflation has kept mortgage rates high. Currently, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage stands at around Continue reading

Lesser-Known Tax Breaks for Homeowners in the United States: Maximizing Your Tax Return

As tax season unfolds from January 27 to April 15, over 140 million Americans are expected to file their returns with the IRS. While homeownership is a significant financial commitment, it comes with various tax benefits that can substantially reduce taxable income and increase refunds. While the mortgage interest deduction is well known, many homeowners Continue reading

How to Make Your Home Smell Amazing: Expert Tips from Real Estate Pros to Eliminate Weird Odors Forever

We all want our homes to smell fresh and inviting, whether we’re hosting guests, preparing to sell, or simply enjoying our living space. But let’s face it: weird smells can creep in, and sometimes we become so accustomed to them that we don’t even notice. To help you create a home that always smells delightful, Continue reading

$51 Million in New York Homeowner Assistance – Just One Requirement to Qualify!

For many New York homeowners, skyrocketing housing costs and expensive home maintenance have made homeownership a growing financial burden. To address this crisis, Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled a $51 million homeowner assistance program, designed to help low- and moderate-income households across the state. This funding will go toward critical home repairs, accessibility improvements, manufactured Continue reading

NYC Offers Up to $100K in Down Payment Assistance: Homeownership for First-Time Buyers

Buying a home in New York City can feel out of reach due to high property prices and hefty down payments. However, the HomeFirst Down Payment Assistance Program, offered by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), is changing the game. This initiative provides forgivable loans of up to $100,000 to first-time homebuyers, Continue reading

Can You Really Lose Your Home with a Home Equity Loan? Here’s What You Need to Know

Home equity loans have long been a popular way to access extra funds at relatively low interest rates. However, borrowing against your home is a serious financial commitment, and failing to repay your loan could put your biggest asset at risk. With interest rates fluctuating and the cost of borrowing changing, homeowners should be fully Continue reading

Mortgage & Refinance Rates Today December 28, 2024: Should You Lock In Your Mortgage Rate Now?

Mortgage rates are fluctuating slightly today, presenting a mixed picture for potential homebuyers and homeowners considering refinancing. While rates aren’t expected to drop significantly in the near future, strategic timing could still save money. Here’s a detailed look at today’s rates and what they mean for you. Current Mortgage Rates According to the latest data Continue reading

Top 10 Housing Market Hot Spots to Watch in 2025: Where Homeownership Dreams Come True

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has unveiled its much-anticipated report on the top 10 housing markets to watch in 2025, offering a glimpse into areas where homeownership may become more accessible. The report highlights regions across the United States that stand out for affordability, job growth, and other favorable factors, signaling potential opportunities for Continue reading