Christel Connection of Samson Properties

02/04/2026

Get to know the ins and outs of personal with this expert guide.

There are several types of personal loans, including secured and unsecured, co-signed, debt consolidation, and buy now, pay later loans.

02/03/2026

Your mortgage payment is only part of the story. 🏡

Most homebuyers focus exclusively on their monthly mortgage payment when calculating affordability. But here's the reality: that payment typically represents only 70-80% of what homeownership actually costs each month.

The average cost of owning and maintaining a single-family home in the U.S., excluding the mortgage, is estimated at around $21,400 in 2025, roughly $1,800 per month. When you factor in these costs, a $2,500 monthly mortgage can grow to over $4,000 in total housing costs.

💡 Key takeaways:

- Nearly 45% of homeowners report post-purchase regrets, most commonly due to higher-than-expected maintenance and hidden costs
- Insurance and property taxes continue rising annually---sometimes jumping $200-300/month in a single year
- Home maintenance now averages around $8,800 annually, with first-year owners often facing higher costs
- The solution? Budget for mortgage PLUS approximately $1,800 monthly in carrying costs

True affordability isn't what a lender approves; It's what lets you sleep well at night when the water heater fails or insurance premiums spike.

Read the full article: http://christelmiller.com/the-true-cost-of-homeownership-what-you-pay-beyond-the-mortgage/

02/02/2026

Get to know the pros and cons of government home loans.

Government home loans are backed by federal departments such as the FHA, VA, and USDA. Find out which type of government home loan is best for you.

01/31/2026

Challenge yourself with these quick decluttering sprints.

This 30-day challenge breaks it into simple, achievable steps—one small shift at a time.

01/30/2026

Short on space? These furniture ideas are long on charm.

When space is at a premium, every detail counts — here, experts share the tricks to finding furniture to beautify your outdoor area, not bury it.

01/29/2026

Thinking about selling this year? You're not alone. The 2026 real estate market is presenting some great opportunities for homeowners who are ready to make a move.

Here are 3 clear signs it might be time to sell:

1. You've Outgrown Your Space
Whether you need an extra bedroom, a home office, or just more room to breathe, feeling cramped in your current home is a valid reason to explore what's next.

2. You've Built Significant Equity
If you've owned your home for several years, there's a good chance you've built up substantial equity. This can give you serious buying power for your next chapter.

3. Your Lifestyle Has Changed
Retirement, job relocation, or an empty nest can all signal that your current home no longer fits your needs. When your lifestyle shifts, sometimes your home should too.

The key is recognizing when your home is no longer serving you the way it once did. If any of these resonate with where you are right now, it may be worth having a conversation about your options.

Let us know in the comments if any of these resonate with you!

01/28/2026

Bathrooms go luxe with deep, warm black tones.

Warm, brown-black is cozier and more versatile than true black, and works in a variety of interiors. It is one of the 2026 Colors of the Year.

01/27/2026

New year, new home goals! 🏡

If homeownership is on your radar for 2026, skip the vague resolutions and focus on these three actionable steps that actually move the needle:

1. Improve Your Credit Score
Even a small boost can save you thousands over the life of your loan. Pay down credit card balances, dispute errors on your report, and avoid opening new accounts. Recent data shows that buyers with scores above 740 secure the best rates.

2. Get Pre-Approved Early
Pre-approval isn't just a formality—it's your competitive edge. Sellers take serious buyers seriously, and knowing your budget helps you move quickly when the right home appears. Many buyers are getting pre-approved months before they start touring homes.

3. Track Listings Weekly
The market moves fast. Set up alerts and check new listings consistently so you understand pricing trends in your target neighborhoods. Knowledge is power when it comes to making confident offers.

These aren't just resolutions—they're your roadmap to homeownership this year.

Let us know in the comments which resolution you're committing to first!

01/26/2026

Explore the world of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture.

Frank Lloyd Wright, architect and writer, was an abundantly creative master of American architecture.

01/24/2026

Smart updates refresh style without stretching the budget.

A half bath is the perfect place to incorporate bold color, wallpaper, and textures. We spoke to interior designers about a few remodel ideas that they love.

01/23/2026

Have you heard of regenerative ? Here's what you need to know.

Discover tips for ensuring the success of your regenerative landscape project. Learn how to navigate challenges, collaborate effectively, and create beautiful, sustainable landscapes with The Garden Continuum.

01/22/2026

🏡 New Year Resolution: The '1% Rule' for Homeowners

As we kick off the new year, here's a smart financial resolution that can save you stress and money down the road: the 1% Rule.

What is it? Financial experts recommend setting aside 1-3% of your home's value each year for maintenance and repairs. This proactive approach helps you avoid being caught off guard by unexpected expenses like a failing HVAC system, roof repairs, or appliance replacements.

Here's how to make it work:
• For a $300,000 home, that's $3,000–$9,000 per year
• Break it into monthly savings: $250–$750/month
• Keep it in a separate savings account labeled "Home Maintenance Fund"
• Use it only for home-related repairs and upkeep

Newer homes might lean toward the 1% end, while older homes often need closer to 3%. Either way, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're prepared when something needs attention.

This simple habit can protect your investment and keep your home in great shape for years to come.

Let us know in the comments