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The Modern Farmhouse is Here to Stay

Apr 9
10:34
AM
Category | General

If you turn on HGTV or open a Good Housekeeping magazine, you are bound to hear or read about “modern farmhouses.” Is this style of home and interior design just a fad, or is it here to stay?  

Originally, farmhouses were characterized as functional and sturdy, typically situated on agricultural land. Farmhouses are beautiful in their straightforward design with little ornamentation and a focus on natural materials, solid construction, and classic colors. Other common elements of this classic style are wraparound porches, larger kitchens, a semi-open floor plan, and a centralized Great Room for family gatherings.  

In 2019 however, many homeowners desire these style elements, no matter where they live. From suburban single-family homes to city lofts, the “modern farmhouse” aesthetic has gained popularity and doesn’t seem to be budging. Why has this happened?  

According to Google Trends, the search term “modern farmhouse” started gaining popularity around 2015. Likely due to the growing viewership of shows like HGTV’s Fixer Upper and trends on Pinterest. Even large home furnishing retailers have jumped on board, creating furniture, appliance, paint colors, and more, specifically to fit a “modern farmhouse.” 

 

We think this trend is here to stay. Not only does this classic look evoke a home’s coziness, but it also appeals to a feeling of nostalgia for multiple generations. As a blend of both country and industrial design elements, many families feel that this style is neither masculine nor feminine, and the classic design will stand the test of time.  

While not every home or budget can accommodate a wraparound porch, some cornerstone elements of this design style can be incorporated at a more reasonable price point. Consider adapting to an open floor plans characterized by wide entryways and high ceilings or large windows or change aspects of an eat-in kitchen to include an apron sink or butcher block countertops and wide planked natural wood floors. Out with the trendy (and pricey) mirrored glass tiled backsplashes, and in with the timeless (and budget friendly) ceramic subway tiles. 

Whether you live in a housing development or on a city block, you can still incorporate and enjoy design elements of a modern farmhouse in your space. Through your paint color palette, light fixtures, flooring or furniture, you can transform your sweet home into a farmhouse oasis! If you want to get started on any of these upgrades today and are interested in refinancing to do so, please give us a call!


Spring Driveway Refresh

Apr 4
4:51
PM
Category | Home Maintenance

After a long winter, rain, snow, or ice could do a lot of damage to a home’s driveway. If your driveway is looking worse for wear and is need of a spring refresh, read on to learn more about your options.  

Types of Driveways:

If your driveway is in a state of disrepair that requires a complete replacement, there are many options to consider. The climate where you live will play a large part in your choice of driveway material. Additionally, the aesthetics of your home (think rustic or modern) may play a role in what style of driveway you prefer to accompany your home. 

Concrete: Concrete driveways are quite popular, as they are very durable and require little maintenance. Concrete driveways are preferred for warm or moderate climates as they can break down over time when repeatedly freezing and thawing. While the classic light grey concrete comes to mind, there are tinted options available as well as concrete pavers (interlocking shapes) or stamped concrete to imitate cobblestone or brick.  

Asphalt: Asphalt driveways are popular for many homeowners, as its vibrant black color offers a clean look for a variety of home and yard styles. Asphalt is more cost effective than other driveway styles but will also require some regular maintenance and patching.  

Brick Pavers: Brick driveways can add an elegant touch to the look of a classic home, especially if you have existing brick paths or patios. Brick driveways will be more costly and will also require a highly experienced professional to install it properly. Especially in regions with heavy rain or snow, proper water drainage is essential. 

Gravel / Crushed Stone: Gravel driveways are quite popular for homes in more rural areas, as they more seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings. They can be installed quite quickly, and often by the homeowner them self (after the gravel/stone is delivered on site). You can buy gravel or crushed stone without breaking the bank, but remember that as it is loosely applied, the small stones can migrate into the yard or street and will require occasional refills. Snow removal can be tricky on these driveways as well. 

Cobblestone: Without a doubt, cobblestone driveways are very pleasing to the eye, and can boost a home’s curb appeal tremendously. Cobblestone will typically cost more than brick, and require the same professional installation. However, cobblestone will require little upkeep, and will maintain its classic charm for decades! 

 

Solutions to Consider:

Repair: Depending on the extent of damage, you may have some DIY option for repairing cracks or fixing splits in the driveway you currently have. Check Home Depot, Lowe’s or your favorite local hardware store for various products made for solving these problems and repairing your driveway. 

Resurface: If you’re starting to see alligator cracks (think cracks that overlap and look like the back of an alligator) or longer cracks through the driveway in any direction, resurfacing the top may help to seal over the issues until the subbase finally breaks down. Look into referrals from the area, yellow pages or a site like Angie’s List to see which companies in your area are the most reliable for this solution. 

Replace: If your driveway is missing pieces or is approaching old age and you just can’t keep up with fixing multiple smaller issues, it may be time to replace the driveway completely. The old driveway and foundation or completely removed and rebuilt. Be sure to research your project fully and spend some time choosing the company who will do it for you, including getting two or three estimates. As always, referrals are great, or look into Angie’s List or the yellow pages for reputable companies in your area. 

 

When listing or buying a home, curb appeal can make all the difference, especially since it’s something that anyone visiting the property will see. Talk to your loan officer today to get pre-approved for the home of your dreams with great curb appeal! 


What's New in Home Tech?

Mar 27
4:40
PM
Category | General

Do you remember the best, state-of-the-art home tech from when you were a child? Maybe it was the next-door neighbor who had a central vacuum system throughout their house, where a hose could be found behind a tiny flap in each room, ready to clean up dust or any messes. To a 5-year-old mind, this ‘smart house’ was amazing.  

Since that central vacuum, home technology has continued to grow and develop. There are some incredibly advanced options available on the market. If you consider yourself a techie and love following the newest releases in smart phones and tablets, wearable tech, TVs, smart home speakers or gaming systems, you might be interested in learning about the latest technology for your home! 

 

The Latest in Security Upgrades 

There is a doorbell with a built-in HD video camera, microphone, and speaker. This tech allows you to check your phone to see who is knocking at your door, whether you are upstairs or out of town. Available from Nest or SkyBell HD

Terrific Temperature Control 

There are smart thermostats that allow you to remotely control the temperature in your home’s rooms and detect hot or cold spots. Options from Nest or Ecobee

For the Pet-Parent in All of Us  

If you want to check on your furry friend when you are away from home, you can install a pet camera. Some even allow you to talk to your pet through your phone app or dispense a treat to your dog or cat! 

Wi-Fi Connected Appliances 

Samsung makes an oven with wi-fi connectivity that allows you to adjust its temperature from your smart phone. They also make refrigerators with front facing touch screens and built-in cameras that allow you to see inside from your smartphone, so you always know what to buy when you’re at the grocery store! 

Smart Lighting 

The Drift Lightbulb has a setting that will slowly fade the bulb from on to off over the span of 37 minutes, which they say is the time of an average sunset. Also available from Phillips are Hue smart lights, a series of lighting options that allow you to turn your smart light bulbs on or off, dim, change their color or have an outdoor bulb range for patio mood lighting. 

The Ultimate Spa Experience 

Try a smart bathtub! This tub acts as a Bluetooth speaker to play your favorite songs when empty. When filled with water, the music creates ripples through the water, enhancing your relaxation. 

An Automated Lawn Service  

Robotic vacuum cleaners have been around for years, but have you seen a robotic lawn mower? These lawn mowers use smart shock sensor technology to avoid obstacles in your yard and returns to its charging base when it is done mowing or senses rain! 

Air Quality Control 

With spring’s arrival, many people start to think about their allergies and indoor air quality. In addition to voice or app-activated air conditioners, there are now smart air purifiers that help remove airborne allergens, mold, bacteria, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at the molecular level, from room to room. 

Wake Up to the Smell of Coffee. Every Morning, Right on Time. 

With a smart coffee maker, all you need to do is fill the water and whole or ground coffee beans, then set the app for whatever time you want your coffee to start brewing. If a latte is more your thing, smart espresso machines are available as well. Be aware though, adding the bean grinder, milk frother, and a variety of 18 different drink options can increase the price tag. 

Smart Fitness Equipment 

No, they won't do the work out for you, but the trend toward smart, in-home fitness machines could help keep you motivated! A Peloton bike or treadmill or the Mirror have subscriptions that allow you to attend virtual classes with a real instructor in the comfort of your own home. 

 

While none of these products are necessities, they sure can make your home, and your life, a bit more convenient and fun. As apps become more and more common in our daily lives, from mobile banking to food delivery, home tech will continue to follow this trend. Is there any smart home tech that you are looking forward to seeing in the future? 


With the spring market warming up, many people are going to be filling their weekends with house hunting. But if an affordable, move-in-ready space to fall in love with can’t be found, homebuyers shouldn’t avoid fixer-uppers or older homes. With a renovation specific home loan, potential borrowers can combine the purchase price and the improvement costs into the financing in one loan. 

At Norcom, we offer several loan options for renovations: FHA 203k, Fannie Mae HomeStyle, and the VA Rehab. Below, we’ll outline what you need to know about each type of loan so you can decide which fits your needs best: 

FHA 203k Limited 

  • 50% of funds are disbursed at closing  

  • Two Draws (50% at closing and 50% upon completion of work)  

  • If the file has a HUD Consultant, the HUD Consultant will complete the final inspection; If the file does not have a HUD Consultant, the appraiser will complete the final inspection  

  • Any changes to the original work order must be submitted to Norcom for approval prior to the work being started  

  • Borrower should not pay for anything out of pocket  

  • Any request for contingency funds must be submitted to Norcom for approval prior to work starting 

  • All items on original work order must be completed prior to any contingency disbursements 

  • A 203k loan cannot be used to pay for work that the FHA deems luxuries (ex. outdoor hot tubs, saunas, barbecue pits) 

  • A 203k loan is for a primary residence and cannot be used for vacation homes or investment properties 

  • Eligible properties include single-family homes, condos in a one-to-four-unit structure, or a qualified manufactured home 

  • The 203k Limited loan caps the cost of renovations to $35,000, however there is no minimum cost of repairs 

  • Work must begin within 30 days of loan closing  

  • All work must be completed within 6 months 

 

FHA 203k Standard 

  • No money will be disbursed at closing  

  • There is a 5-draw limit, which is determined prior to closing  

  • If the file has a HUD Consultant, the HUD Consultant will complete the final inspection; If the file does not have a HUD Consultant, the appraiser will complete the final inspection 

  • Norcom requires a progress update every 30 days  

  • Contractors General Liability Insurance must be valid through project completion  

  • Any changes to the original work order must be submitted to Norcom for approval prior to work being done  

  • Borrower should not pay for anything out of pocket  

  • Any request for contingency funds must be submitted to Norcom for approval prior to work starting 

  • All items on original work order must be completed prior to any contingency disbursements 

  • A 203k loan cannot be used to pay for work that the FHA deems luxuries (ex. outdoor hot tubs, saunas, barbecue pits) 

  • A 203k loan is for a primary residence and cannot be used for vacation homes or investment properties 

  • Eligible properties include single-family homes, condos in a one-to-four-unit structure, or a qualified manufactured home  

  • The 203k Standard loan allows for a project costing more than $35,000, however total improvements must cost at least $5,000  

  • Work must begin within 30 days of loan closing  

  • All work must be completed within 6 months 

 

Fannie Mae HomeStyle 

  • No money will be disbursed at closing  

  • There is a 5-draw limit, which is determined prior to closing  

  • If the file has a HUD Consultant, the HUD Consultant will complete the final inspection; If the file does not have a HUD Consultant, the appraiser will complete the final inspection 

  • Norcom requires a progress updated every 30 days  

  • Contractors General Liability Insurance must be valid through project completion  

  • Any changes to the original work order must be submitted to Norcom for approval prior to work being done  

  • Borrower should not pay for anything out of pocket  

  • Any request for contingency funds must be submitted to Norcom for approval prior to work starting 

  • All items on original work order must be completed prior to any contingency disbursements 

  • Can be used to renovate a second home or investment property, if it is an eligible property type 

  • Work must begin within 30 days of loan closing  

  • All work must be completed within 6 months 

 

VA Rehab 

  • Borrower must qualify for a VA loan to be eligible for the VA Rehab loan  

  • 100% Financing of purchase price plus improvements  

  • No monthly MI  

  • One closing for purchase and rehabilitation  

  • Maximum improvement cost cannot exceed $35,000  

  • 15% Contingency reserve required  

  • All work needs to be completed within 90 days of closing  

  • Contractor must be approved by Norcom Mortgage  

  • Both purchase and refinance options are available  

  • Rehabilitation disbursements are made when work is complete 

 

As a future homebuyer and potential borrower, remember that you have options, especially if you’ve found a house that’s not picture perfect, but the location is exactly what you had in mind. Reach out to our VP of Renovation Loan Programs, Charlie Napolitano to learn more about your renovation loan options.   

 


“If I don’t hear the word millennial at least 10 times a day, I think I might have lost my hearing” said Norcom’s Greg Radding on his podcast, Radding’s Rapport, at the end of February. Greg interviewed Mike Fratantoni of the Mortgage Bankers Association about the state of the mortgage market. Among other key points, they spoke about how millennial first-time homebuyers are now one of the largest drivers of the US market, and their presence will undoubtably have an impact on the mortgage industry.  

What it boils down to is in the United States, the most populous age group today are millennials. The typical first-time homebuyer is 31 or 32, so millennials looking to buy homes today are, as Fratantoni explained, “the leading edge of the wave of tremendous housing demand.” This explains why many in the industry believe the purchase market will continue to grow over the next few years. Whether we will see the demand in terms of millennial homebuyers themselves, or the potential landlords of millennial renters remains to be seen. 

One noticeable change for this age group from previous generations is that most millennials are waiting longer to begin the homebuying process. This change is due to multiple factors, including but not limited to, an increase in student loan debt. Furthermore, these homebuyers might be looking for different things in a first home than their parents or grandparents, and they’re taking their time to figure out the details! 

 

If you are looking to work with millennial first-time homebuyers, here are some points to keep in mind: 

  • Millennial borrowers value proximity to popular venues and shopping districts. 

  • One of the top factors for millennial first-time homebuyers is the quality of the local school district, whether they have a family yet or not. 

  • They are willing to put sweat into their home. Possibly due to the popularity of renovation themed tv shows, homebuyers have more confidence in buying an ‘imperfect’ home and investing in fixing it up and making it their own. 

  • Just as with news, commerce, and other fields, millennials are regularly turning to social media to help with the homebuying process. This generation relies on online reviews and recommendations to make purchasing decisions and to decide who to work with as a realtor or mortgage professional. 

  • Millennial borrowers are known for their in-depth research into a potential home before scheduling a showing or visiting an open house. 

  • Low or no down payment programs are quite popular with this group of first-time homebuyers. 

 

If you are a first-time homebuyer, we have more information here or reach out to your Norcom loan officer today!


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