We all want our home to be a place of welcome, rest, and refuge. But if we go bankrupt just to buy a house, or if we don’t steward it well, we’re unlikely to feel very much at home. Here are some tips on how to invest in your home wisely – from planning your purchase to staying on top of all those “little” maintenance projects that add up over time.
Citizens National Bank: Plan before you buy
The best home purchases begin with a clear plan and solid preparation. Start with a comfortable budget and get pre-qualified so you can shop confidently and make a strong offer. Compare neighborhoods for long-term value, and partner with an experienced agent to help you evaluate price and negotiate terms. Before closing, schedule a professional inspection to spot issues early and avoid costly surprises. Keep room in your monthly payment for taxes, insurance, and maintenance. At Citizens National Bank, mortgage originator Greg Shows is here to guide you from application to closing — reach out today to get started.
Courtney Elder Law Associates: Legal options for your home and other property
A home may be the largest asset one leaves to family. There are numerous ways to leave real property to another, each of which has control, asset protection, and tax consequences.
If I deed property to my children outright, they have my income tax “basis” (what I paid for it). If they later sell it, they will pay income tax on the “capital gain.”
If my children get ownership of my property through my will or revocable trust at my death, their basis will be the value of the property at my death. This will save them income tax when they sell it.
Property left to someone through a revocable trust may avoid probate upon my death. A will must be probated to pass a clear title to the new owners.
A life estate deed lets me keep the right to use and occupy the property for my lifetime (the “life estate”), with full ownership passing to the “remainder” owners named in the deed at my death. This avoids probate and gives the children a new tax basis, but would cause them some capital gain if we sell the property before my death.
At Courtney Elder Law Associates, we can help design a plan that will protect your home and other property and provide for your family.
Elim’s Art Concepts: The impact of a well chosen frame
After being a framing designer for more than 20 years, I’ve noticed the aesthetic impact that frames have on a customer’s home. This profession has allowed me to observe how individuals define a quality living space. If you have ever visited our design studio inside the Jackson Medical Mall, you will notice a variety of designs from frame companies throughout the world. Let’s discuss how these frames can add value to your living spaces.
A well-crafted picture frame can help tie together room themes and unify different spaces in your home. When conducting a consultation with a client, we consider:
- Wall colors
- Furniture tones
- Accent colors
In addition, a custom frame can match the look of your home, whether rustic, modern, traditional, or an executive look. On various occasions, my assistant designers will spend hours researching a particular custom frame theme with a client to ensure that their needs are met at every level. The reason this is important is because a quiet sitting area in your home can come about because you took the time to think out all the details. To conclude, frames can make your home look rich and vibrant in every way.
Fireplace Chimney Sweep Solutions: Maintain your fireplace and chimney
A wise investment in your home starts with proper maintenance, and your fireplace and chimney are no exception. Regular chimney inspections and cleanings help prevent costly repairs, improve efficiency, and protect your family’s safety. Taking care of small issues early can extend the life of your fireplace and preserve your home’s long-term value.
Golden Years Financial: Invest in a retirement income plan
Your home is more than a house. It is where memories are made, traditions are passed down, and the people you love gather. One of the wisest investments you can make is creating a retirement income plan that helps protect that stability for the future. Most people spend years building wealth, but retirement requires a different kind of planning — one focused on reliable income, reducing unnecessary risk, and creating the freedom to enjoy the life you worked to build. A strong retirement plan helps keep home feeling like home for the people who matter most. – Clark Smith, president and financial advisor
John Dorsa, State Farm: Choose a local insurance agent
All insurance policies are not the same, and all insurance COMPANIES are not the same. VALUE means finding the best coverage available at the best price available; the purpose for insurance is to protect your property and assets, so finding the best VALUE should be everyone’s goal when shopping for insurance (NOT fishing for the cheapest price).
In June 2022, State Farm celebrated our 100-year anniversary. If disaster strikes, State Farm will be here for you when you need us. And why do you need a local agent? Because we are here to fight for you! With John Dorsa State Farm, you are not a number: You are a unique person with a unique situation and unique needs, and you are a part of our family. Please check out our Google reviews to see what our customers think about us!
Miskelly Furniture: Get more (furniture) for your money
When furnishing your home, smart shopping strategies can help you maximize every dollar spent. At Miskelly Furniture, we believe quality furniture should be accessible to every budget, and shopping strategically makes all the difference.
Start by prioritizing purchases based on daily use and immediate need. A statement dining table might catch your eye, but a smaller functional dinette set may offer better value right now. Focus first on pieces you’ll use every day, like a supportive mattress, durable sofa, or sturdy dining set, then build from there as your budget allows.
Performance fabrics offer exceptional value for families. While they may cost slightly more upfront, they’re far less expensive than replacing furniture damaged by spills and stains. These innovative textiles resist liquids and clean easily, protecting your investment from juice boxes, pet accidents, and everyday messes. For added peace of mind, Miskelly’s M-Care protection plan covers accidental damage that performance fabrics can’t prevent, helping protect your furniture investment for years to come.
Multi-functional furniture stretches your budget even further. A storage ottoman costs less than buying a separate coffee table and storage trunk, while beds with built-in drawers can eliminate the need for extra dressers. At Miskelly’s, furniture such as our storage-chaise sectionals provide seating, lounging, and hidden storage, delivering three solutions in one piece.
Don’t let budget constraints force you into poor-quality compromises. Miskelly’s offers flexible financing options, including 0% interest plans, making quality furniture more accessible by spreading costs over time. This allows you to invest in durable, well-constructed pieces instead of settling for alternatives that require premature replacement.
Quality furniture used daily for years offers better value than cheaper options replaced every few years. Miskelly’s design consultants can help you identify pieces that deliver long-term value within your budget.
Remember, smart furniture shopping isn’t about finding the cheapest option; it’s about finding the best value for your family’s needs and budget. Visit a Miskelly’s location near you, and let our expert sales team help you find the perfect pieces for your home.
Noble Properties: Build with long-term value in mind
A home is one of the biggest financial investments you’ll ever make, so it’s important to build with long-term value in mind. Quality craftsmanship, durable materials, and functional layouts consistently provide strong returns over time and help create a home that will serve your family well for years to come. Kitchens, bathrooms, and thoughtful storage solutions are especially worthwhile areas to prioritize, since they combine everyday functionality with lasting appeal. Energy-efficient features, quality windows, and well-planned living spaces can also add both comfort and value.
It’s important to think beyond short-lived trends and choose timeless designs that will age well and remain attractive for decades. A well-built home should balance beauty, practicality, and durability. As a builder, I encourage homeowners to focus on investments that not only fit their current lifestyle but also contribute to the long-term strength, efficiency, and resale value of the home.
PriorityOne Bank: Plan and stay organized for your purchase
Being financially prepared to build or buy a home starts with careful planning and organization. One of the most important steps is building strong savings. Having money set aside for a down payment, closing costs, inspections, and unexpected expenses helps reduce stress and shows lenders that you are financially responsible and prepared for homeownership.
Credit readiness is also very important. Before applying for a mortgage, it’s helpful to review your credit report, pay down debt when possible, and ensure all bills are paid on time. A strong credit history can improve your chances of approval and help you secure better loan terms.
Being prepared with your documents is also essential for a smooth loan process. Most lenders will request proof of identification and two years of tax returns and W-2 forms, along with 30-60 days of recent pay stubs and bank statements. Having these documents available in advance helps make the loan process smoother and faster.
Overall, being prepared financially means planning, maintaining good credit, and staying organized with your financial paperwork to ensure a successful home-buying experience.
Rich Price, realtor: Don’t defer home maintenance
Deferred maintenance is the quiet killer of home equity. A neglected roof or aging HVAC can erase years of built-up value overnight. Before chasing upgrades and renovations, make sure your fundamentals are sound. Caring for what you already have is the foundation of every smart homeownership strategy. – Rich Price, realtor | getrichhq.com