Alex Mabry's Blog Posts

Why Most Home Sales Feel Like a Battle You're LosingIf you've ever sold a house, you know the drill. It starts with excitement and ends with exhaustion.Here's how it typically goes:Week 1: You list

When buying or owning a home, you’ll often hear about home warranties. Some homeowners swear by them, while others see them as unnecessary. So what exactly is a home warranty—and is it

When you’re shopping for a home, interest rates can feel like just another number, but in reality, they play one of the biggest roles in determining how much house you can afford and what your

 Owning a home isn’t just about buying it—it’s about taking care of it year after year. Seasonal maintenance helps protect your investment, prevents costly repairs, and keeps

Today’s homebuyers aren’t just looking for curb appeal and square footage—they’re also paying attention to sustainability. From energy-efficient appliances to water-saving

When people talk about the “wealth” of owning a home, they’re often talking about home equity. But what exactly does that mean, and how can you put it to work? Let’s break it

Buying a fixer-upper can be a great way to get into a desirable neighborhood or score a deal on a home—but it also comes with challenges. Before diving into demo days and paint swatches, here

Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move—but it's not always the right choice. So how do you know when it makes sense?Let’s walk through when to refinance, when to hold,

If you’re preparing to buy a home, one of the most important numbers in your life right now is your credit score. A higher score doesn’t just help you get approved for a mortgage&mdash

So, you’re getting ready to buy a home. That’s exciting! But here’s something most people don’t talk about enough: once you move in, there are more expenses than just your

Thinking about going solar? Whether you’re looking to save on energy bills or reduce your carbon footprint, there are now two sleek options for homeowners: traditional solar panels and newer,

Before you apply for a mortgage loan, there’s one important step you shouldn’t skip: checking your credit reports.Your credit history plays a major role in getting approved for a,

Good news: residential burglaries are on the decline thanks to improved law enforcement tools and home security technology. But that doesn’t mean your home is immune. Burglaries still happen

Learn how rising or falling interest rates affect your mortgage, savings, and home buying power. Simple, expert advice for 2025 real estate decisions.High vs. Low Interest Rates: What They Mean for

Economic Development Update: A Culinary Boom in Oshkosh this MayEconomic development often moves in waves, and in Oshkosh, the restaurant sector is riding a big one. As communities grow and shift,

Why Overpricing Your Home Could Cost You More in the Long RunWhen you put your home on the market, your goal is simple: sell it fast and for the best price. But in today’s shifting real estate

How to Omit Co-Signed Debts from Your Mortgage ApplicationLearn how to legally omit co-signed student loans or car payments from your debt-to-income ratio when applying for a mortgage or refinancing

When you picture a luxury winter getaway, an A-frame chalet nestled in the snowy Alps might come to mind. These striking triangular structures have a rich history, evolving from practical farm

Victorian architecture, named after Queen Victoria (1837–1901), remains one of the most enchanting and influential home styles. Spanning multiple design movements, these homes reflect the

Understanding Real Estate Agency: What Buyers & Sellers Need to KnowA real estate agency is a legally binding relationship between agents, brokers, and their clients during a property.

Short-term rentals have thrived in recent years due to housing shortages, changing travel habits, and digital booking platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. In 2023 alone, over 200 million overnight stays

Owning a home is a major milestone, but without careful planning, it can quickly become a financial burden. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), affordable

Lower Mortgage Interest Rates Expected for Spring 2025: What It Means for HomebuyersAs the 2025 spring homebuying season approaches, mortgage interest rates are on a downward trend, bringing good

Mortgage interest rates are slowly drifting lower, offering a much-needed boost to homebuyers and home sellers alike. However, home prices continue to rise, even as more sellers list their.

Understanding Functional Obsolescence in Real Estate: How It Impacts Older HomesPurchasing an older home can be a smart investment, especially if you’re prepared to put in the work and

If your expat fantasies have kicked into high gear, these countries are the first places to look.Many people dream of moving abroad, whether it's to experience a different culture, a desire for a