This Blog is designed to provide a forum where a wide range of ideas and issues can be posted and discussed, issues to help make readers aware of important industry developments and share and learn from each other’s experiences and information. SIRVA’s goal is to promote collaboration and innovation among publishers in an appropriate manner taking account of anti-trust and competitive issues.

  • How Credit Checks Affect Buying a Home

    You probably know that your credit score is something that all mortgage companies will look at when you apply for a loan. But, how does your credit score and credit checking actually affect buying a home? Here are a few of the basic things to know before you apply for a mortgage.

  • How to Create a Beautiful Outdoor Space

    During the spring and summer months, you probably plan to spend a lot of time outside. As you move your nighttime hours to the deck, patio or screened in porch, you might be getting motivated to spruce it up a bit. Here are some ways to make something beautiful out of the ordinary.

  • Biggest Garage Sale Mistakes

    It’s that time of year again; time to think about spring cleaning. If you have enough to get rid of, you might be considering a garage sale. Before you jump in headfirst, be smart and learn from others’ past mistakes.

  • Can I Get Rid of My Private Mortgage Insurance?

    The basic requirements for canceling private mortgage insurance (PMI) are these:

  • Appraisal Myths Debunked

    The appraisal process can be frustrating. It never seems like your home is valued where you think it should be valued. It’s hard (as a seller) not to feel like the whole thing is “rigged” by the buyer.

  • Are you Ready to Show your Home? Here's a Checklist

    You might feel like you’re mentally ready to sell your home, but is your home ready? Look at this quick checklist of things that you shouldn’t forget before you let potential buyers check out your house.

  • Small Budget Cuts for Big Savings

    If you’re like most people, you have dreams – whether it’s going to Italy, becoming the CEO of your company, starting a non-profit, sky-diving or just plain old making a difference while you’re here on this Earth. Whatever your aspirations may be — it might require some extra cash.

  • How Millennial Buyers are Different than Baby Boomers

    When selling your home, it’s important to think about your prospective buyers and how you should market differently to each group. Even if you think your home would be better suited for a baby boomer or retiree, you might be surprised to find out your home could be attractive to a single Millennial. Here’s how your Millennial marketing plan might need to be updated.

  • How to Calculate if I Should Rent or Buy

    When determining if you should rent or buy – you’ll need to look at all the expenses associated with homeownership. Once you have the dollars and cents, you can calculate how many years it will take for you to break-even on buying versus renting.

  • Homeowner Choices: DIY or Hire a Professional?

    When moving, upgrading, downsizing or remodeling – there’s one question you’re probably asking yourself…can I do this myself or should I hire a professional? Here are some of the questions you should ask yourself when making this important and (possibly) expensive decision.