It’s finally fall and that means plenty to do. Here are some apple orchards and pumpkin patches to check out near you.
Buffalo, IA
Alpha, IL
Coal Valley, IL
Sabula, IA
Long Grove, IA
East Moline, IL
If you’ve decided you want to pay off your mortgage sooner than later, here are some ways to pay off your mortgage early.
Refinance with a Shorter-Term Mortgage
Pay off a mortgage faster by refinancing to a 15-year mortgage. Shorter-term mortgages typically have lower interest rates than longer-term mortgages. The sooner you can pay down on the principal of the home, the quicker the interest figures will drop.
Make an Extra Mortgage Payment
If you save a twelfth of a payment every month and then make an extra payment at the end of the year, you’ll be able to pay off a 30-year mortgage almost three years early. This method also gives you the flexibility to use the extra savings for any unexpected expenses that come up.
Pay Using any Bonus Money You Receive
If you receive an unexpected windfall of cash or a sizable tax return, consider applying that money toward your mortgage. This can be extremely cost efficient in the long run, as you will save by paying less interest over time. This can definitely help pay off your mortgage early.
Make Extra Principal Payments
Most mortgage lenders will allow you to make an extra payment and mark it “principal only.” Paying down on the principal can save you quite a bit in interest and will pay off the loan quicker as a result. Contact your lender to see if this is an option you can take advantage of.
Find more financial tools on our website.
A home inspection is an assessment of your home’s condition. Home inspectors not only identify problems with houses but also give sellers information to help them identify areas needing improvements. If you’re having a home inspection completed either as a buyer or a seller, here are four home inspection mistakes to avoid.
Not Researching the Inspector
Too many buyers and sellers hire whoever is recommended to them without doing any research. The inspection is only as good as the inspector doing it, so find a certified inspector with experience and good reviews.
Not Attending the Inspection
Being present for the inspection may not be mandatory, but it’s a smart idea. If you don’t see the inspection process, you may not understand it. Being present during the inspection gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have and clarify the basis for items on the review.
Passing on a Presale Inspection
Many sellers decide to leave the pre-sale inspection to the buyers, which may leave you unprepared if you need to make repairs prior to closing a deal. Save yourself a future headache by having an inspection done ahead of time before you list your home.
Failing to Prepare Your Home
Inspectors want homeowners to prepare for an inspection. They’re going to need access to the basement, attic and crawlspaces. Be sure to clear a path to these areas before the inspector arrives to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Find more tips to help you prepare to sell.
