Matt Goeglein

"I’ll Just Take Care of It."

The Benefits of Buying a Home with a Basement Suite

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When searching for a new home, many buyers overlook one valuable feature that can add flexibility, income, and long-term potential: a basement suite. Whether it’s fully finished or ready for renovation, a basement suite can offer a wide range of benefits beyond just additional space.

Rental Income Potential

One of the biggest advantages of a basement suite is the opportunity to generate rental income. Many homeowners rent out the suite to long-term tenants, students, or even short-term guests depending on local regulations. This additional income can help offset mortgage payments, property taxes, and utility costs, making homeownership more affordable.

Multigenerational Living

With more families choosing to live together under one roof, a basement suite offers a smart way to maintain both privacy and proximity. Whether you’re welcoming aging parents, adult children, or extended family, having a separate living space can provide comfort and independence for everyone.

Flexibility Over Time

A basement suite gives you options. Today it might serve as a guest room or home office. In the future, it could become a rental unit, an in-law suite, or a space for your college-aged child. Homes with basement suites are adaptable and can evolve along with your lifestyle needs.

Increased Resale Value

Homes that include basement suites often attract more interest on the resale market. Buyers see the value in having a property that can serve multiple functions—especially one that provides income potential. This can lead to a broader pool of interested buyers and possibly a higher sale price when the time comes.

Financial Security

With housing costs and living expenses on the rise, having a basement suite can provide a financial safety net. Whether you choose to rent it out or use it to house a family member, it adds real value to your investment and can help reduce financial stress during uncertain times.

What to Consider

Before purchasing a home with a basement suite, be sure to check local zoning laws and building codes. Not all basement suites are considered legal or permitted, which could affect your ability to rent them. It’s also important to evaluate the condition of the suite, ensure it has a separate entrance if needed, and determine whether additional upgrades or safety features are required.

Buying a home with a basement suite is more than just a smart investment—it’s a practical way to maximize space, generate income, and plan for the future. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, it’s a feature well worth considering.

No Property? No Problem. Start Investing with REITs

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You don’t need to buy a house or manage tenants to get into real estate investing. If you’ve been curious about investing in property but aren’t ready for the hands-on commitment, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) might be the perfect solution.

What Is a REIT?

A REIT (pronounced “reet”) is a company that owns, operates, or finances income-producing real estate. These companies pool money from multiple investors to purchase properties like apartment complexes, office buildings, shopping centers, or even hospitals and warehouses.

When you invest in a REIT, you’re essentially buying shares in a company that makes money from real estate—and you earn returns through dividends and potential stock appreciation.

Why Invest in a REIT?

REITs are a great option for those who want to dip into real estate without the hassle of owning physical property. There’s no need to handle repairs, find tenants, or worry about property management. Instead, you can invest the same way you’d buy stocks or mutual funds—often with much lower upfront costs.

Other benefits include:

  • Liquidity: Unlike physical real estate, many REITs are traded on major stock exchanges, so you can buy or sell your shares easily.
  • Diversification: REITs often invest in multiple properties across different markets, helping you spread out risk.
  • Passive Income: Most REITs are required by law to return at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders, making them a consistent source of dividends.

Types of REITs

There are a few different types of REITs to consider:

  • Equity REITs: These invest in and own properties, earning money through rent and property value increases.
  • Mortgage REITs (mREITs): These invest in real estate debt (like mortgages) and earn income from interest.
  • Hybrid REITs: A mix of both property ownership and mortgage investments.

You can invest in REITs through a brokerage account, retirement fund, or REIT-specific mutual fund or ETF.

Things to Keep in Mind

While REITs are more accessible than buying property outright, they still come with risks. Market conditions, interest rates, and economic shifts can affect performance. It’s a good idea to do your research or talk with a financial advisor to find the right REIT for your goals.

A Smart Entry into Real Estate

If you’re ready to get involved in real estate but aren’t quite ready to buy your first property, REITs offer a smart, low-barrier way to start. They’re flexible, passive, and ideal for investors who want real estate exposure without becoming landlords.

Choosing the Perfect Window Coverings for Your Home

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Windows play a vital role in shaping your home’s ambiance, bringing in natural light, enhancing privacy, and even improving energy efficiency. The right window coverings can make all the difference, balancing style and functionality while complementing your décor. With a wide range of options available, from classic treatments to cutting-edge technology, finding the perfect fit for your space is easier than ever. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best window covering choices to consider.

Classic and Timeless Options

Curtains and Drapes

Curtains and drapes remain a popular choice for their ability to add warmth, texture, and elegance to any room. Available in a variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns, they can seamlessly blend into traditional and contemporary spaces alike.

  • Benefits: Excellent for light control, insulation, and enhancing home décor.
  • Cost: Budget-friendly options start at $10 per panel, while high-end custom designs can cost over $500 per panel.

Blinds

Blinds offer a sleek, structured look with adjustable slats for customizable light control. Available in materials such as wood, faux wood, aluminum, and vinyl, they work well in any room.

  • Benefits: Durable, easy to clean, and available in a variety of finishes.
  • Cost: Entry-level vinyl blinds start at around $15, with high-quality wood blinds reaching $300 per window.

Shutters

Shutters are a long-lasting investment that adds charm and sophistication to your home. Whether opting for traditional wood or durable composite materials, shutters provide excellent insulation and privacy.

  • Benefits: Boosts home value, enhances light control, and offers superior durability.
  • Cost: Prices range from $100 to $700 per window, depending on materials and size.

Modern and Stylish Solutions

Roller Shades

For a clean and contemporary look, roller shades are a fantastic choice. Available in light-filtering, blackout, and solar options, they suit a variety of lighting and privacy needs.

  • Benefits: Minimalist, easy to operate, and energy-efficient options available.
  • Cost: Basic models start at $20, while motorized options can exceed $500.

Roman Shades

Roman shades combine the softness of fabric curtains with the structure of blinds, creating an elegant, tailored appearance. They fold neatly when raised, offering a refined aesthetic.

  • Benefits: Stylish, excellent for light control, available in various fabrics.
  • Cost: Prices range from $30 to $500, depending on fabric choice and customization.

Vertical Blinds

Ideal for sliding doors or expansive windows, vertical blinds offer practicality and versatility. They are available in fabric, vinyl, and aluminum to suit different styles.

  • Benefits: Perfect for wide spaces, easy to maintain, and available in various materials.
  • Cost: Typically priced between $50 and $300 per window.

Smart and High-Tech Innovations

Motorized Blinds and Shades

For ultimate convenience, motorized window treatments allow remote or app-based control, often integrating with smart home systems like Alexa or Google Home.

  • Benefits: Enhances energy efficiency, child-safe, and effortless operation.
  • Cost: Starting at $200 per window, with high-end systems exceeding $1,000.

Smart Glass

Smart glass technology eliminates the need for traditional coverings by allowing you to switch between transparent and opaque settings at the touch of a button.

  • Benefits: Modern, innovative, and provides seamless control over privacy and light.
  • Cost: Ranges from $50 to $150 per square foot, making it a premium option.

Solar-Powered Shades

Eco-conscious homeowners can opt for solar-powered shades, which harness sunlight to power their motorized functions.

  • Benefits: Energy-efficient, sustainable, and can reduce electricity costs.
  • Cost: Typically priced between $300 and $1,000 per window.

Budget-Friendly and DIY Alternatives

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to dress up your windows, consider these affordable solutions:

  • Frosted Window Film – Provides privacy without blocking light ($10–50 per roll).
  • Magnetic Blinds – Easy to install and remove, making them ideal for renters ($25–100 per window).
  • Tension Rod Curtains – No drilling required, great for temporary setups ($10–40 per window).

Choosing the right window coverings depends on your personal style, budget, and functionality needs. Whether you prefer the timeless appeal of curtains, the sophistication of shutters, or the convenience of smart glass, there’s an option for every home. With the right selection, you can enhance privacy, control lighting, and even boost energy efficiency, all while elevating your home’s design.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 21st, 2025

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While the week had a significant absence of impactful data releases, there are still the notable U.S. retail figures numbers, as the turbulent tariff policies that have been announced have sent shockwaves across many industries. This time the U.S. retail sales have seen a significant jump as consumers try to get ahead of the tariff policies, although it is suspected that the subsequent data will show a significant curtailing of purchasing power by consumers. This restraint in the future is what has most analysts concerned about the future in addition to inflation rising as a result of the tariff policies.

U.S. Retail Sales

The numbers: Retail sales in the U.S. surged 1.4% in March—the biggest increase in more than two years—as shoppers sought to buy big-ticket items such as cars before Trump administration tariffs could raise prices.

The rise in sales surpassed Wall Street expectations, but it doesn’t mean the U.S. economy is trouble-free. The trade wars threaten to boost prices, fuel inflation and slow the economy in the months ahead if they persist.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index

• 15-Yr FRM rates saw an increase of 0.21% for this week, with the current rate at 6.03%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw an increase of 0.21% for this week, with the current rate at 6.83%

MND Rate Index

• 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.08% for this week. Current rates at 6.36%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.07% for this week. Current rates at 6.38%

Jobless Claims

Initial Claims were reported to be 215,000 compared to the expected claims of 225,000. The prior week landed at 224,000.

What’s Ahead

Watching where crude oil is headed in the coming weeks will also be important to see how international trade is handling the recent tariff policies. In addition, the Consumer Sentiment report will give a better indication of how safe consumers feel in the current climate, along with the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book.

Essential Safety Devices Every Home Should Have

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Ensuring a home is equipped with the right safety devices is crucial for protecting both family members and property. From fire prevention to emergency preparedness, having the right tools in place can make all the difference in a crisis. Here are ten essential safety items that every household should have.

  1. Smoke Alarms
    Smoke alarms are a fundamental part of fire safety. They detect smoke and alert occupants to danger, allowing time for evacuation. It’s essential to install smoke alarms on every floor, inside bedrooms, and in hallways. Regularly test them, replace batteries as needed, and consider interconnected models so all alarms sound when one is triggered.
  2. Carbon Monoxide Detectors
    Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal. CO detectors alert occupants when dangerous levels are present. These should be placed near sleeping areas and on each floor of the home. Regular maintenance and battery replacements ensure they function properly.
  3. Fire Extinguishers
    A fire extinguisher can stop small fires from spreading. Multipurpose extinguishers should be placed in key areas such as the kitchen, garage, and near fireplaces. Everyone in the household should know how to use them properly, following the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side.
  4. First Aid Kits
    Having a first aid kit readily available can be lifesaving in an emergency. A well-stocked kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, pain relievers, and a first-aid manual. Keeping kits in both the home and car ensures accessibility when needed.
  5. Security Systems
    A home security system provides protection against potential intrusions. Basic systems include door and window sensors and motion detectors, while advanced setups offer surveillance cameras, smart locks, and mobile alerts. Even the presence of a security system can deter burglars.
  6. Emergency Escape Ladders
    For multi-story homes, emergency escape ladders are essential in case of a fire. These provide a safe exit from the upper floors when doorways are inaccessible. Storing them near windows and practicing their use can improve preparedness.
  7. Flashlights and Batteries
    Power outages can occur unexpectedly, making flashlights essential. Keeping them in accessible locations, along with extra batteries or rechargeable options, ensures a reliable light source during emergencies. Battery-operated lanterns can also provide extended illumination.
  8. Emergency Preparedness Kits
    Being ready for unexpected disasters is vital. A well-prepared emergency kit should contain bottled water, non-perishable food, a manual can opener, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra clothing, hygiene supplies, important documents, and cash. Personalizing the kit to include medications or pet supplies ensures all household members’ needs are met.
  9. Surge Protectors
    Power surges from lightning, outages, or electrical malfunctions can damage appliances and electronics. Surge protectors help safeguard computers, televisions, and other valuable devices. Investing in high-quality protectors can prevent costly repairs or replacements.
  10. Radon Detectors
    Radon is a radioactive gas that can enter homes through cracks in the foundation. Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung disease. Radon detectors measure indoor levels, alerting homeowners to potential hazards. Placing them at the lowest occupied level of a home helps ensure safe air quality.

Prioritizing Home Safety
Equipping a home with these essential safety devices enhances protection against various risks. Routine maintenance and periodic checks ensure everything remains in working order. Taking proactive steps toward home safety provides peace of mind and a secure environment for all residents.

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