Home appliances

Choosing Appliances: Kitchen (Part 1)

On By Maggie S.In Financial, Homebuyer Education

Welcome to our Choosing Appliances miniseries! In this series, we’ll be doing our best to help you through the sometimes-stressful research process for purchasing a new appliance. While appliances are not quite the sticker shock of a home or a car, they still are big financial investment. This miniseries will hopefully help you cut time and worry on your choice.

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We’re starting in the kitchen where the bulk of our appliances live. We’re breaking it into two sections. In part 1, we’re covering refrigerators and dishwashers, so let’s jump in!

Most people don’t have to buy appliances when moving into a home. So, it’s likely that you could go a while without having to purchase any. When looking at refrigerators and dishwashers you’re looking at something that starts at about $500 each. So, you’re probably going to want to make an informed decision spending that amount. That’s why we’re here to help!

Appliance Logistics:

Before you go to the store or start to search online there are some things we can narrow down and think through.

  • Measure the area the appliance will fit in (height, width, and depth)
  • Note unique factors (for refrigerators: if your fridge will be put into a wall pocket, you’ll want to make sure it sticks out enough (depth) for you to open your doors easily/fully.)
  • Make a purchase plan
    • What’s your budget range?
    • Are you going to purchase during a sale?  (most big box stores have Memorial Day and Labor Day sales)
  • Will you need delivery? If so, consider cost. Or do you have a truck/trailer?
  • Will the appliance fit in your doorways? Will you have to take it up stairs?
  • What will you do with your old appliance?

An important note is to check availability. More recently what’s in stock is more prevalent to your purchase. If you’re casually looking you may not mind a three-month backorder. However, if you needed it yesterday going into a store and asking about what they’ve got in store is a good place to start. That way you don’t get attached to something that isn’t available or won’t be for a while.

Couple looking at appliances, specifically a fridge

Refrigerator Specifics:

See what’s available – now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

There are many types of refrigerators, keep in mind different styles will cost more than others. 

Types:

  • Top Freezer (more affordable option, usually ranges $600 – 1,000)
  • Bottom Freezer
  • French Door (can be more expensive)
  • Side by Side
  • Quad Door (most expensive)
  • Undercounter (more specific uses, less popular traditionally)

Think of style/ color. Most options are black, white, or stainless steel. You may be able to get another color or a custom color, but it will probably cost a little more.

Now you’re ready to start shopping! You’ve got all the particulars thought through so you can shop in confidence. There are tons of in-depth guides for the best refrigerators of the year. So, search for a few of those and compare with your preferences and budget to find the best option for you.

person reaching into dishwasher

Dishwasher Specifics:

Not everyone places necessity on dishwashers. Many people live without them for some time or their whole life. Likely, if you already have a spot and hook up for one, you’ll continue to use one, but if you don’t you won’t – so you decide what fits best for you. 

See what’s available – now it’s time to look around and get an idea of what’s available.

ENERGY STAR® Certified. Nowadays there are tons of dishwashers that use less water or conserve it in some way. If this is something you’re interested in for your home keep a look out for certified dishwashers that can save you some energy.

Think of style/ color. Most options are black, white, or stainless steel. You may be able to get another color or a custom color, but it will probably cost a little more.

Number of racks. Some people want two rows while others want three. This is really the biggest variant for dishwashers. They don’t have all the type options like refrigerators.

Are you ready to start shopping and figuring out if you want more tech and less noise on your new dishwasher? Check out some of these dishwasher options to help you get started in your informed search!

We hope that this has helped you be an informed shopper, but most importantly that it’s reduced the unknown and prepared you for some of the options you’ll have to decide on. We hope that you’re entering this purchase a little less stressed.

We went through options that were new, but there are used options as well. You can go to a local wholesale or resale store. For online options you can try a local selling site or something similar. Stay tuned to our miniseries! Next time we’re covering ranges and microwaves!

*ENERGY STAR® and the ENERGY STAR® mark are registered trademarks owned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  

woman sitting looking at a computer and talking on her phone.

6 Questions to Ask of a Mortgage Lender

On By vmfhomesblogIn Financial, Learn

Searching for a new home can be a fun challenge. Finding a way to finance your home shouldn’t add to the stress, however it can because sometimes homebuyers aren’t sure what questions to ask. As a first-time homebuyer, you’ll really want to focus on asking the right questions to your real estate agent (if you have one), potential financing companies offering loans, and the seller of the home you’re purchasing. As a repeat buyer you may know the ropes, but these questions could still benefit you greatly.

When looking for a mortgage company or potential lender, you will want to make sure they are a good fit for you! Below are some suggestions for questions to ask when shopping around for your mortgage:

  • How long are your loan terms and what terms do you offer?

The lifetime of a mortgage is important to know when you begin. Often homebuyers may expect a 30-year loan term. However, depending on the lender there can be a handful of options. The length of your loan will likely impact your monthly payment, interest, etc. You’ll also want to know this to see if there’s any penalty for early pay off in case that’s something you want to do. Some people choose shorter mortgage terms or early pay off to cut interest.

  • What are your current rates?

While interest rates are mostly determined by the Federal Reserve and the demand for notes and bonds (depending on the rate in your loan), banks also play a role in what they offer based on what’s best for business and the current market.  When it comes to individual lenders, they will offer you their specific rates (which are based off your credit score). There are many sites now that will let you compare ballpark rates to help you get a general idea. For exact rates, you do have to apply. Depending on the lender, they may also share a rate range with you without applying.

  • Would the rate be a fixed rate or an adjustable rate?

This will depend on what’s offered. You may come across lenders who don’t offer both. Your fixed rate is what it sounds like, fixed for the lifetime of your loan (unless you refinance). Adjustable rates can go up and down based on amortization. You’ll weigh what option fits you best. Whether locking in a low-rate works, or if purchasing at a higher rate for the possibility of movement is better – the choice is yours.

Someone is counting out cash and has a budget sheet and calculator out.
  • What are the down payment requirements?

This question is pivotal for many homebuyers. Often what you must put down makes or breaks you being able to purchase at a certain time. Lenders will usually be able to tell you what percentage of the down payment they require after you apply. This also depends on your credit score and the specific mortgage option you’re selecting. In some cases, the type of loan will require a specific down payment amount.

  • Do you finance for mobile or manufactured homes? (Not all lenders will so it is important to ask ahead if you are planning on purchasing one)

If you are hoping to finance a manufactured home, it will depend on the lender. While manufactured home loans can be set up similarly to site-built homes loans, they do differ depending on if land is involved. Because there are specifics that relate to a manufactured home, you’ll have to find a lender who specifically does loans for them.

  • What is your turn around time for closing?

If you need to be in or out of a home quickly then the closing timeline may be quite important to you. It really ranges as there are so many variables. However, lenders should be able to give you a ballpark once they know your specifics. If the timing doesn’t impact you that much, it will still be a great planning tool for you.

This list may not be all inclusive to every question a homebuyer may have, but it is a good start for those not knowing where to begin! We hope this helps to get you thinking in the right direction.

Additionally, keep in mind credit bureaus allow you to shop around for mortgages. This means 14 to 30 days after your first application for a mortgage, the bureaus allow you to apply to multiple entities (provided they code this as a “mortgage” with the bureaus). The first time you apply will show as a hard inquiry and drop your credit score, but up to 4 more within that timeframe will only show as a soft inquiry which means it won’t lower your credit score. Be sure to verify this when you are applying.

Happy shopping!

Couple is standing together in their kitchen with cups of coffee.

Downsizing in a Mobile Home: Upsize Your Life

On By Kayla PerezIn Budget-Friendly Ideas, Homebuyer Education

Does the idea of downsizing come across your mind often? There are many great reasons to downsize in a mobile home. You could be in season where your expenses may be difficult to manage, and you’re seeking a financial breakthrough with this affordable housing option. Or you may want a smaller, better organized layout in your home to inspire less clutter. Perhaps you are wanting a one level home for safety or mobility reasons- a manufactured home could be a perfect fit. So for whatever your reasoning may be downsizing doesn’t just mean less space – it often means less stuff/clutter and more living.  

Why Downsize in a Mobile Home?

  • Affordable housing can benefit new homeowners. For those ready to retire to anyone prepared to have extra funds in the bank – everyone wins!  
  • Lower your daily expenses to save money for more options to be applied elsewhere.
  • You can have the freedom to move your home where it best suits you, whether in a community or on private land.
  • Customization! Mobile homes come in a variety of sizes and many have more square footage for less than their site-built counterpart. But part of their versatility means you have a 5 bedroom or a small 2 bedroom, sometimes even 1 bedroom home.
  • Open layouts – most mobile homes are super open which inspires a tidier space, and less clutter.

Transitioning into a mobile home will can mean square footage (if you’re downsizing) but will help you keep the house clean and will be easier to maintain. If this is your first time moving into a mobile home, check out more helpful tips here!

Gray mobile home in a park.

Interested in a Mobile Home Park?

If you decide to move to a mobile home park community, the atmosphere and amenities can fit your needs. It could help lower your bills and help you to become a stress-free homeowner. 

Benefits

  • Safe communities include background checks and safety protocols in their community.
  • Community Perks and Amenities include a pool, fitness center, and community events.
  • Minimal Maintenance, whereas parks tend to hire professionals to keep the property maintainable. 

Lot rent may vary depending on what community you select and with other common homeowner fees.

Let this help outline your journey in downsizing. There is plenty of consideration to do and discover if downsizing in a mobile home applies to you. If you are tired of living in the city, this is your sign! If you are still trying to decide, see more information about owning a mobile home here!

blue backsplash in a manufactured home kitchen

Using Your Tax Refund as a Home Investment

On By vmfhomesblogIn Financial, Homeowner Maintenance

If it’s a tax season where you are getting a refund instead of having to pay or breaking even: congrats! If not, be patient, your season could be soon. Don’t get discouraged. The best option is usually to save instead of spend. However, tax refunds can be an exception because most people don’t budget them in. If you can, consider setting aside part of your refund to a savings account, outstanding bill, or high interest payment. Those are typically the best places to start.

Another great option if you’re in the market for a home is to consider using your tax refund towards your down payment. Down payments can deter some buyers from purchasing a home. However, using your tax refund could get you into your home quicker and may alleviate the need to pull from your savings. That’s a win-win!

After that, if you’ve got a little left over, you might consider showing your home some love with some of these upgrades listed below! Making an investment in where you live can pay off in the future. Skip the instant gratification and invest where it counts. Based on what amount you have left over we’ve outlined a few home improvement ideas by cost. Ideas are just estimates and will vary due to several factors, such as home size and the supplies used.

Most of the estimated project costs below are considering the cost of labor (for the ones that need that). If you plan to do the work or install – you could spend less!

Less than $300

Update light fixtures

Painting kitchen cabinets with a kit

Replace door knobs

Pressure wash

Programmable thermostat

$300 – 600

New dishwasher

Add kitchen backsplash

Add a new screen door

$600- 1,000

Entire home storage/organization

Adding updating landscaping/curb appeal

Replace garden tub or standing tub/shower

$1,000 – 1,500

Replace carpet in entire home

Build a shed

We hope this inspires you to try some updates in your home that add to your investment. We’ve tried to highlight upgrades that we think will make your home valuable and/or look better in the future.

Try a Project For Your Home!

Organization bins on shelves in a mobile home

How to Organize Your Home

On By Kayla PerezIn Homeowner Maintenance, Lifestyle

The year-end is an excellent opportunity for a fresh start for you and your home. If you’re unsure where to start, it’s best to begin with one room at a time to initiate the declutter process. Once your items are sorted, it is easier to organize them with containers and labels to help support your new lifestyle.

Organization can be applied to about any room in the home. Adding containers and organization  bins does not have to be expensive and they can be found in-store and online at a low price. Let’s discover what items we can use to help organize.

Kitchen

I believe many would agree the kitchen is the best room in home for the late night snacker! Why not make it easier to locate and grab your favorite food when entering the kitchen?

Countertop: Store the toaster, dish rack, and air fryer away and remove what is not in use. Start with clearing off the counter. This will help maximize counterspace.

  • Try canisters with labels to store sugar and flour. This helps create easier access to staple food items.
  • Spice up your spice rack with a plastic shelf that helps you visibly see your kitchen ingredients.

The Pantry:  This plays an important role in being organized, it can provide an easier way to view the food items in your household.

  • Crates can be used to group same food items in one area to add more space in your pantry.
  • Plastic clear containers work for multiple food items such as, cereal, snacks, and pasta.

Refrigerator: Get quicker access to food and spend less time holding the fridge door open.

  • Clear containers can hold you your fruits, vegetables, or larger items like juices or canned foods. This will help you avoid throwing away food that’s gone bad. Help your fruits and veggies stay fresh longer!
  • Egg holders provide more room to store items and less damage to your eggs.
Woman in kitchen with dog standing next to organization shelving

Bedroom

Let’s face it, does your room bring you peace after a long day? Or stress you out from the clutter flooding your room? Going through your room you might find the need for more space and realize you don’t have it. Here’s how to find that space that you have been missing…

woman organizing her closet with bins and shelving.

Closet: While going through your wardrobe, you may find clothing that you no longer need. That’s normal! Feel free to have an organization bin for donations as you sort through your closet. In the meantime, this is how we can clean up what you still have.

  • Storage bins can be utilized to store shoes or large clothing items to avoid and prevent a bulky closet.
  • Baskets help store jeans and seasonal clothing items. Baskets can vary from fabric, wicker, or plastic. Find the style that best suits you!

Drawers: It’s okay, we are all guilty of the junk drawer in our room. You know the one where we throw random things in because we don’t know where else it would fit. Well, here’s your sign to straighten it up!

  • Small bins to store t-shirts or undergarments will help open more space and avoid overflowing.
  • Dividers to help group smaller items like jewelry or makeup to keep the area clean.
  • Tray placements on top of the dresser for easy access instead of opening your drawers. These  are ideal when you are on the go.

Did a lightbulb go off while reading this? Are you inspired about how you can get your home into a system of organization and enjoy a cleaner, more efficient space? Happy sorting! 

Now that you have seen new ways on how to organize your space check out more tips here!

Christmas decoration. Candles safely placed on votives on a log with slots for votives.

Quick Holiday Safety Tips

On By Maggie S.In Homeowner Maintenance

It’s time to decorate for those that celebrate! Holiday decorating adds a lot to our homes and brightens the dark nights. Between travel and all these new elements in our home we want to be sure we are taking precautions to keep everyone safe. This will help to avoid fires, injury, or further damage. Below we’ve included tips to help keep you safe!

Décor Tips:

The National Safety Council has a lot of great ideas on how to stay safe this season. Check out some of their tips!

Electrical Tips:

  • Check lights before using. This will ensure there’s no broken bulbs or frayed wires, while also letting you know if they still work before you wrap them around your tree.
  • Use smart plugs or timers to make for easy automated shut off or have the ability to turn off lights you left on accidentally.
  • Keep outlets and plugs far and away from your tree base if you have a real tree to keep away from water.

Natural Décor Tips:

  • Be wary of poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly as they are poisonous to dogs, cats, and/or harmful to babies. Avoid them in your home or keep them secured out of reach or in an unvisited part of your homes’ exterior.
  • Keep your tree watered and away from fireplaces and radiators.
Candlesticks being blown out.

Candle Tips:

  • Make sure candles are secure and fit will in their containers.
  • Don’t mix loose candles with flammable décor. Use tea lights or votives in holders that are larger than the candle to protect your home from fire.
  • Try flameless candles!
Man taking pie out of the oven with two rags.

Kitchen Safety:

  • Keep timers running. maybe even two! Entertaining can distract from the oven and things you have cooking. Be sure not to get distracted.
  • Be mindful of pressure cookers and air fryers in holiday prep. Be careful not to multi-task cooking with these items unless you have an additional adult to help.
  • Keep an eye on mulling spices / potpourri that you boil for the scent. Lower the heat to low after you get a simmer going and keep ample water in the pot to avoid burning.

We hope this can serve as a quick checklist for your home and helps you make adjustments as needed for your and your families’ safety. Protecting your home and the people in it is the most important. Check out our post for holiday décor ideas that are simple and safe!

Cozy living room with dog sleeping by family on couch

Make Your Home the Coziest with These 5 Tips

On By Maggie S.In Featured, Lifestyle

One of the most important elements of home is that it makes you feel you like you can relax. Everywhere else in the world may be a place of work, progress, etc., but home should be your sacred space, your place to be without formality, your place where time pauses almost. All of this is what it means to be cozy in your home. For many, it’s a welcoming atmosphere for others an interesting space that makes them want to linger.

Adding comfort to your home doesn’t require a large space or anything fancy. It’s about choosing items that inspire warmth and choosing what’s practical for your home. Cater what cozy means to you, to your space. If something doesn’t work in your house don’t feel you have to include it, you decide ultimately what’s good for your home. So how can you make your home cozy, or maybe just a little bit cozier?

Lean into seasonal queues. The feeling of cozy comes from fitting the season. It’s not just a cold weather mood. Your home can be cozy in the warm seasons, too. All you have to do is bring in flower/plants of the season, cook with what is being harvested, or take from colors/celebrations that are coming up. Likely, fall and winter are well understood in how they inspire coziness. Remember to incorporate organics and natural elements.

  • For example, in the spring bring in pastels, create a bouquet with daffodils and tulips, and use light colored wood to decorate. You might even bring in some fake grass to make a centerpiece or a terrarium.
  • In summer, cozy might be sunflowers, light breezy curtains/blankets, touches of linen and bright colors.
bathroom with plants around the tub, a rug, and towels on a chair.

Less, Not More. Clutter isn’t necessarily cozy. Now that’s not to say your trinket corner has to go, or that maximalists are unable to have a welcoming space. It just means that the space is inviting and gives you an obvious place to fill. So, if you’ve got a small space, try keeping décor and furniture minimal. You don’t have to fill everything up. Same goes for a bigger home. Cozy is an open chair. It’s simple really.

Dim it down. Natural lighting, lamps, dimmers etc. all add soft lighting that makes your home all the more inviting. Avoid overhead lighting or any lighting that is harsh and makes you feel like it’s time to focus and not relax. Try adding some lamps, string lights, (or my favorite) candles to your home for an undeniable ambiance.

Candles in brass holders with pine branches around them

Layers. This one is pretty obvious. More blankets, pillows, and textures make a place super comfy. You can make this fit seasonally as well by choosing to put out fabrics that work with the weather. It’s great to have plenty of options when it comes to creating a snuggly spot.

 Brass/Copper/Gold-Colored. There’s something about these warm elements that bring any room together in the name of comfort. Different from stainless steel, these elements add a natural shine while also still feeling natural. Dark wood is also a good accent to make your home more cozy. Using each of these materials interchangeably makes for a beautiful, interesting space.

Are you imagining your living room or bedroom redesigned with some of these elements? Incorporating cozy doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Start small with a corner of a room and notice the change it creates. Also, make sure it’s still you and the designs you like. We hope you find a blend that fit you. Cheers to making your home cozy!

Thrift for your cozy!

Three paint lids in a row with paint brushed placed on them. The colors are sage green, pastel pink, and a soft gray.

Preparing to Paint Your Home

On By Rachel MersingerIn Homeowner Maintenance, Learn

Whether it is a new-to-you space or a familiar one, painting can always be a fun project. While fun, it can also feel overwhelming. To help prevent it from feeling that way, let’s go over some tips and tricks to making this process as easy as you can.

Before you first shake up and open that paint can, it is important to plan out what you want your room to look like. Picking your color is a fun part of the process but you’ll want to keep some things in mind:

Lighting:

Consider the lighting in your room. If you do not have a lot of natural light or if there is dim lighting, you will want to consider a lighter color than a darker one.

Need some inspiration? See what’s trending this year.

Other colors in the room:

Coordinate your paint colors with your furniture and curtains. While those items are replaceable, it is a good idea to see if your paint swatch will go with that color beforehand, so you don’t have to purchase new if you weren’t wanting to.

TIP: If you do have a room that you want to keep light but add a bit of drama, consider doing an accent wall!

Couple painting a wall in their home together. A woman is standing on a ladder while a man paints with a roller.

Materials:

Once you have picked out your paint colors, it’s time to gather your supplies.

  • Besides the paint, you’ll need an angled brush to cut in and rollers for the walls.
  • To protect your floors, add an old sheet or cotton drop cloth to your list. (You can always shop a thrift store for old sheets too).
  • Using quality painter’s tape will help prevent paint bleeding through and last, but not least, primer. Primer is cheaper and will help you use less coats of paint. It may feel like more work at the beginning but skipping this step will have you wishing you didn’t in the end.

Before you start your project, consider your local weather. The less humidity, the faster your paint will dry and will prevent drip marks on the wall. Prepping your walls before painting is also important as it adheres the best to a clean surface. If you have wallpaper, consider whether you want to remove it or paint over it.

Tip: If you start painting but need to stop. You can wrap your roller or brush in plastic wrap then place in the fridge. This will help keep your paint fresh, so you don’t have to wash it out in between coats.

Now that you know all that you need to get started, let’s get that project going!

Want to switch up your furniture to match your own room but don’t want to buy new? Check out how here.

Mobile Home Upgrades That May Improve Value

On By Maggie S.In Homeowner Maintenance, Learn

There are some relatively easy upgrades you can add to your home for little cost. One of the great things about mobile homes is that there is so much you can do with them, and often a little research and how-to knowledge is all you need to achieve the look or project you desire. Let’s check out some ideas!

Insulation is a great upgrade for your mobile home. It not only will regulate your temperatures, but it may also possibly help lower your energy bills. Plus, there are plenty of options that won’t even inconvenience you while it’s being added!

Painting the walls in your mobile home can add the personal touch you’ve been wanting. Most mobile homes have vinyl-on-gypsum wall panels, which means the walls are coated and will probably need some sanding or a paint with primer to stick properly. Get all the details about painting your mobile home walls.

Spruce up your home by updating your kitchen cabinets. From knobs to paint color, all it takes is a little embellishment. Get started on painting your cabinets with a kit today!

You can also work on making your home more energy efficient. This may mean a smart thermostat that fluctuates throughout the day, new windows, sealing your roof, etc. These upgrades usually help regulate the temperature within your home as well. Don’t stop there, there are tons of easy ways to save energy in your home without spending money. Get energy saving tips!

Lastly, Landscaping can add tons of charm to your home. You can choose a color scheme or just unique plants, the choice is yours! Not only will landscaping look great, but it can absorb water and keep your home dry, too! Try some of our landscaping ideas to improve drainage!

There are many more updates out there, including upgrades you can look into that won’t cost much for your home. It’s really about knowing your home and yourself enough to know what you’d benefit from as well as what you’re willing to keep up with!