Tax season. Just the words can send shivers down your spine.
But if you're a homeowner, there's a silver lining: potential savings! 

You’ve probably heard that you can deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage — but did you know there are many other ways homeowners can reduce their tax burden? Before you start your return, read this post for common home-related tax deductions, eligibility requirements, and tips on how to maximize your savings.

Home-Related Tax Savings: The Basics

Before we get into the details, it’s important to define some important terms to set the stage. 

Tax Deductions vs. Tax Credits

Most tax savings opportunities for homeowners come in the form of tax deductions. Deductions work by reducing your taxable income —

4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Ask any homeowner about what they would like to change about their home, and most will say, “How much time do you have?".

Home improvements (cue Tim Allen on the TV show) or home remodeling projects can stem from a variety of motivations, like preparing your home to put on the market, adding space for a growing family, addressing outdated features or aesthetics, or fixing structural/functional issues with the home.

However, when it comes to home remodeling projects, too many people assume their project will proportionally increase the value of their home. Few actually consider the complete scope of return on investment (ROI), taking into account not only potential impact on resale value but also

Experts Predict Home Values to Increase 1.5% to 3.6% in 2025. Top housing experts and economists give a glimpse of what mortgage rates, home values and the national real estate market will do in 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Mortgages are forecasted to remain higher for longer; but there are things you can do to lower your rate.
• Home values are predicted to increase incrementally on a national level; and there are projects you can do to increase your home's value.
• The national market will slightly favor sellers in negotiations; however, real estate is driven by local dynamics and may favor either buyers or sellers.

Note: real estate is a dynamic market and forecasts made in this article will change as the year unfolds.

Mortgage Rates

For many homebuyers, multigenerational living used to be considered an option of last resort: it was a route families took only when they needed to ride out a financial storm or care for ailing family members. But that mindset is on the decline: A growing number of families now say that they are embracing multigenerational living and moving in together by choice.

In fact, research by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that the share of multigenerational home buyers rose to 14% in 2022––close to an all-time high.1

Buyers cite a multitude of reasons for choosing a multigenerational home, including saving money on living expenses, pooling resources, taking care of very young or aging relatives, and spending more time with family.

With home prices and rates still relatively high, securing a mortgage can feel daunting––even to the most experienced borrowers. But don't let that deter you: If other homebuyers' experiences are any indication, odds are you'll eventually find a home loan that works well for you.

In fact, most U.S. homeowners say they're satisfied with the mortgage they received, according to a recent Bankrate survey. The vast majority of the surveyed homeowners (69%) said they'd buy their current home again if they had a do-over.1

The key to finding the right home loan for you is to look for one that you’ll feel comfortable with long after you've closed on your new property. In addition to comparing term lengths and mortgage rates, also consider how the

Whether you’re putting your home on the market in a few weeks or a few years, strategic upgrades can make all the difference. But you don't have to embark on a major remodel to make a significant improvement.

Even minor updates can have a big impact on your home’s aesthetic, and certain renovations can even boost its future sale price.

From curb appeal to interior updates, here are seven weekend projects that will enhance your home’s current charm and long-term value.

1. Freshen Your Front Door

Is your front door looking a little tired? A new coat of paint can make your home more inviting to today’s guests and tomorrow’s buyers.

But before you grab that paintbrush, think carefully about your choice of hue. According to a recent study, the

Myth 1: I should wait to move until mortgage rates fall. 
Reality: While experts say rates will come down, trying to time the market is not a good strategy.
Working with a pro for expert advice is.

Myth 2: I'll get a better deal once prices crash. 
Reality: Prices aren't falling. Data show they are rising, just at a slower pace.
So, waiting may actually cost you more in the long run.

View short video here

From wildfires to floods, the past few years have brought a historic number of devastating climate and weather events to the United States. In 2023 alone, there were 28 individual weather-related disasters that caused at least $1 billion in damages each.1

These events triggered a huge influx of home insurance claims, and analysts expect the increase in both catastrophes and claims to continue. Adding to the problem, construction labor and supply costs have risen, making it more expensive to repair affected homes. Consequently, home insurance rates have surged: In 2024, Bankrate reports, premiums are already up an average of 23%, following double-digit increases the previous year.2,3

In disaster-prone regions, the situation is even more

Buying a home in 2024? Here are 5 steps to take now.
We can help you get started with a free consultation.

1. Check your credit score
2. Shop for a mortgage
3. Set a budget
4. Make a list of the features you care about most
5. Find a real estate agent you trust

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Has your homeowner’s insurance premium gone up?

Rates have risen across the country, but these five tips can help you cut costs.

1. Comparison shop each year to make sure your price is competitive

2. Bundle your home and auto policies to save on both

3. Consider raising your deductible to reduce your premiums

4. Make your home more disaster-resistant for lower rates

5. Invest in home security upgrades to get discounts

Ready to save?
Reach out for a referral to an insurance broker who can help you shop around for the best rate.