braxtonjoy

09/02/2026

Thinking of purchasing a vacation home you can use and rent out to offset the cost? Be sure to understand the tax implications before investing.

If you own a vacation rental but also use the property yourself at times, you should know some important federal income tax rules.

08/31/2026

Do you yearn for the seclusion of having your home on a private road? Be sure to contact your city planner or tax office before buying to make sure you understand your financial obligations and liabilities before buying.

Most roads are public thoroughfares. But that’s not always the case, so it’s smart for potential home buyers to ask about street ownership and maintenance.

08/29/2026

🚫 Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns! 😱 Whether it's in textiles, wallpaper, or décor, patterns can add personality and visual interest to your space. Does this look appeal to you?

08/28/2026

Window blinds and shades can be both beautiful and functional in your new home. Here are some tips before you make the investment.

Blinds and shades are a great way to add attractive accents to a room’s decor. Here’s our primer on buying blinds and shades.

08/26/2026

Considering buying a house to flip for profit? Or even to rent and sell later? Don't forget to calculate in the cost of capital gains if you're not planning on living in the home. Here are some more pitfalls to consider.

Have you ever wondered if you missed an opportunity to flip a house? Let’s pull back the show business curtain and take a look.

08/24/2026

When building a new home, consider paying more for your electrical setup. Installing more outlets than the standard recommendation and incorporating USB ports can enhance convenience and future-proof your spaces. Here are some more upgrades worth adding & skipping.

When building a new home or remodeling, it’s exciting to choose from all the latest and greatest options -- especially when we’re talking about kitchens and bathrooms. Here’s a list of high-end items worthy of adding and another list of luxury upgrades you might want to skip.

08/22/2026

💵 Remember to budget for more than just your monthly mortgage payment. Being financially prepared is key to a smooth home-buying process.

08/21/2026

OEKO-TEX? GOTS? What do all those acronyms on textile labels tell you? Here’s what you need to know.

You may have been puzzled by acronyms on the label when buying sheets or towels. OEKO-TEX®? GOTS? What do these terms mean? And what do they tell you about the product you are buying? Here’s our primer on textile certifications. OEKO-TEX® Home textiles such as mattresses, towels, sheets, curtain...

08/19/2026

A beautiful and well-maintained front door not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also contributes to a positive and inviting atmosphere. Consider it an investment that adds value and charm to your property. Here are some more tips to help you get that "wow factor" when selling your home.

When your house is for sale and the exterior is in need of a makeover, you can do it inexpensively with a little paint, a pressure washer and some elbow grease. But if your home needs a little more TLC and your budget allows, follow these steps to take your home’s curb appeal to the next level. Yo...

08/17/2026

Testing well water is crucial for rural property owners to ensure the safety and quality of their water supply. If you are considering purchasing a home with a well, here's what you need to know about why and when you should test.

If you own rural property with a private well, the regulations in many states are less stringent than federal laws. Here is what you need to know.