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I love dogs, I admit it.  Our dog, Stella, (pictured), is a constant source of unconditional love. But, no matter how much of an animal lover you are, there’s nothing worse than living next door to an incessant barker or a Great Dane that doesn’t understand human “personal space” boundaries. If you have a four-legged, furry friend, your neighbor’s will always appreciate your efforts to make sure that your dog isn’t that type of dog.

You’ve fallen in love with a home. That feels fantastic – until you hit a speedbump. How do you know if that hiccup just has you feeling cold feet, or if it’s really something that should raise red flags? It depends on the situation. Here are a few times when it might be the right move to walk away from a home sale.

If you’re not completely comfortable with the idea of buying a home, don’t worry! It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about making one of the biggest purchases of your life. But rest assured – it will also be one of the best. If you’re nervous about home buying, use these tips to warm up your cold feet.

You know what’s exciting? Making a lot of money when you sell your home! You know what’s not as exciting? Giving a sizable portion of that to the government. Good news: you may not have to give as much as you think! In 1997, a Taxpayer Relief Act made it possible for you to hold on to more of the money you make when you sell your house (also known as your capital gains). Here are two things you need to know about your capital gains tax.

Has a neighbor ever kept an eye on your house while you’ve been traveling?  Have you ever borrowed a cup of sugar or needed an egg from next door?  Do you love the idea of a dinner rotation on your street?  From security to resources to friends, maintaining good neighbors is one of the simple joys of living in close proximity.  In contrast, having (and being) a bad neighbor can inflict stress and unhappiness into your life.

Moving into a new home is exciting. And, if you’re like me, decorating can be just as exciting!  From obsessing over paint color to picking out new furniture, it’s understandable that you’ll want to start decorating and furnishing as soon as possible.  Before swiping the credit card for your special, new purchases, read below to avoid the three most common mistakes made by new homeowners.

Homeowners love to make home improvements – go greener today. In this day and age, going green is all the rage. From recycling to walking instead of driving, many are trying to find ways to better the environment while improving their lifestyle.  A new kitchen or bathroom is usually the first choice for an exciting home improvement and spending money to make your home more energy efficient typically doesn’t have the same sexy allure.  Perhaps we can spark more interest to enhance your home’s energy efficiency and make it more enticing once you consider these benefits!

What do buyers need to know if you purchase a home in a planned development, subdivision or a gated community?  You may find that you’ll likely have to join a homeowners association (HOA). In these communities, homeowners pay mandatory monthly or annual dues. Although no one wants to pay additional fees….a well run HOA can provide value and be the best solution to maintaining a continuity in the neighborhood and/or a higher standard of care in the area.

If you watch HGTV, and you’re anything like me, the odds are you’re also a fan of Chip and Joanna Gaines. The couple from Waco, Texas star in the show “Fixer Upper”.  This pair has inspired many people to blend their own specific styles with classic design elements to create spaces that are uniquely, and beautifully their own. Now, you can bring “Fixer Upper” style straight to your home, minus the elbow grease, thanks to the new furniture line from Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines.