Date Archives: October 2019

There may be a point when you're faced with a sudden transition and have to purchase a new property even before you sell your old one. In this scenario, you might wonder if you should apply for a bridge loan to span the gap between the sale and purchase. Our real estate agents explain how bridge loans can ease the transition from one house to another.

What Are Bridge Loans?

Also known as "gap financing," bridge loans are temporary loans used in residential and commercial real estate. They provide a lifeline for buyers who are eager to buy a new home before they've sold their current one. Unless you have enough cash for the down payment, it can be hard to qualify for a loan to finance a new home while you're still saddled with mortgage payments on your current home.

With a bridge loan, you'll use the loan amount as the down payment for your new home, which makes the process go more smoothly. And like home equity loans, HELOCs, and mortgages, your current home will serve as collateral. You can then move into your new home and start focusing on selling the old one.

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If you love craft beer, then few seasons are better than fall. In addition to being a great time to sample locally created seasonal beers, fall is the perfect time to enjoy a pint while enjoying local college and pro football action. The South Bend area is home to a ton of excellent craft breweries, where you can sample unique flavors that you won't find anywhere else. Our real estate agents love helping you get to know South Bend, and we've got the inside scoop on five great craft breweries located around the city.

Grab an IPA at These South Bend Breweries

1. Crooked Ewe Brewery – 1047 Lincoln Way East, South Bend, IN 46601
   South Bend homes for sale make it easy to visit every destination on our list, including the Crooked Ewe Brewery which is located in the city. The team at Crooked Ewe produces small-batch craft brews in nearly every style. Try a stout, IPA, ale, or porter, along with a huge selection of seasonal beers throughout the year.

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If you've just become a homeowner for the first time, you're probably feeling thrilled, exhilarated, and probably more than a little exhausted. If so, you're far from alone.

Our real estate agents understand the challenges of homeownership, and once you've made it through the homebuying process, it's time to start thinking about the ongoing responsibilities of owning and maintaining your home. These are the tools you'll need now that your home's maintenance is your responsibility. 

• Adjustable Crescent Wrench
  No need to invest in a whole set of wrenches in every size. Just get a couple of adjustable crescent wrenches, so you can match the jaws to nuts and bolts of any size. Go for a self-ratcheting wrench so you don't have to remove it from the bolt over and over again to tighten it. 

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Whether you're checking out St. Joseph homes for sale or you've already found your dream home, antiquing is a super fun way to spend a beautiful fall day. Our real estate agents love searching for unique finds at antique shops all around Berrien County and have some recommendations for where you just might find the perfect hidden treasure to take home.

• Elephant's Breath - 203 State St., Saint Joseph, MI 49085
  From records and books to gorgeous antique furniture, Elephant's Breath has a huge selection of unique items to choose from. The friendly, knowledgeable owners are happy to help you find what you're looking for, whether it's a bookshelf, mantle, or a rare collectible.  Some of their top-notch selections include beautiful Mid-Century Modern, Industrial, and Primitive-style furniture, pottery, vintage clothes, jewelry, cameras, and more.

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