Posts made by author 'Strano & Associates'
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- 2026 | 4 Posts
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- 2020 | 24 Posts
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3
What You Need to Know About Using a VA Loan in 2020
VA home loans provide a fantastic opportunity for veterans and their families to put a solid foundation under their financial future. There are some changes to the VA home loan program that make it easier for soldiers, sailors, and airmen to purchase a home. These changes will affect loan limits, fees, and other elements of the program that our REALTORS® want you to know about and think over before you apply.
Funding Fees Rise for Some Borrowers
The funding fee for VA home loans is rising to 2.30% for first-time active duty borrowers, which is a slight increase over the 2.15% it is at currently. This change will go into effect on January 1, 2021, so there is still plenty of time to purchase a home before it affects borrowers. On the other side of the coin, Purple Heart recipients who are still on active duty will no longer have to pay the funding fee starting on January 1, 2020. The subsequent use fee is also rising. It is currently set at 3.3% but will increase to 3.6% on January 1, 2020.
The Funding Fees are based on a sliding scale for regular military personnel based on their down payment.
| Down Payment | Fee for First-Time Home Buyers | Fee for Subsequent Use |
| 0% | 2.3% | 3.6% |
| 5-10% | 1.65% | 1.65% |
| >10% | 1.4% | 1.4% |
Further, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019 streamlines the funding fees for all military personnel. Starting January 1, 2020, National Guard, reservists, and active-duty personnel will be subject to the same funding fees without distinction to which branch they serve.
27
Low-Carb Dining Options in Belleville for a Healthy 2020
What do keto, paleo, Atkins, and Mediterranean have in common? They're all popular forms of low-carb eating, which has gained popularity as a way to lose weight and control blood sugar. Enjoy the great taste and health benefits of low-carb dining at these wonderful restaurants around Belleville recommended by our real estate agents.
- Sugarfire Smoke House - 1425 N. Green Mount Rd., O'Fallon 62269
Sugarfire Smoke House takes the best BBQ traditions and creates a style all its own. Specialties range from the simplicity of the Carolina sandwich to the heartiness of the Meat Daddy, a platter of ribs, sausage, brisket, pulled pork, and turkey. Order online for convenient carry-out or delivery to the area near O'Fallon homes for sale.
13
How to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient
Improving energy-efficiency within your home will trim a significant sum from your monthly utility bills. It will also enhance the home's curb appeal in an increasingly eco-conscious real estate market. As you think about the things you can do to reduce your energy usage, our real estate agents recommend you pay close attention to the following:
- Upgrade Your Appliances
A new washer/dryer, refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher can shave hundreds of dollars from your gas, electric, and water bills each year. More importantly, these upgrades give your home a modern appeal enhancing the home's value in the eyes of prospective buyers. - Invest in Insulation
Adding new insulation with a higher R-value in the attic and crawlspaces can shave hundreds of dollars per year off your heating and cooling bills. Moreover, your investment in insulation pays roughly a 1:1 return in terms of real estate value.
30
8 Ways to Improve Your Winter Curb Appeal
Everything tends to look a little gray and dreary in the winter, so if you're selling your home during this season, you'll have to pay particular attention to curb appeal. The weather might be colder, but your home should still look warm and inviting. Winter curb appeal can make your home look more vibrant and inviting when compared to other area homes.
Our real estate agents recommend the following 8 ways to improve your winter curb appeal:
- Add Color to Your Porch
If your home has a porch, add a pop of color with a few brightly colored rocking chairs with cozy outdoor cushions and blankets. Even if it's too cold for prospective owners to have a seat, they'll be attracted to a cheery color in cold weather and may imagine themselves relaxing in them when warmer temperatures come. - Boost Outdoor Lighting
Since it gets dark earlier in the winter than during other times of year, some buyers may be viewing your home when it's dark. Add outdoor illumination such as pathway lights on the side of your front door to make your home sparkle while helping keep guests safe.
23
5 New Year's Celebrations Near Belleville
Doesn't it seem like just yesterday that we were eagerly awaiting the turn of a new century? Well, get ready to party like it's 2020 because another new year is on the way. Our real estate agents have the scoop on five fabulous New Year's celebrations around Belleville.
- New Year's Eve Walk & Dinner - Balance Coffee and Tea, 732 S. Illinois St., Belleville 62220
The Illinois Trekkers will be conducting a guided walk along with two 5K loops right down the street from Belleville homes for sale. Join the group afterward for dinner at Tavern on the Main, located at 301 E. Main St. Registration for the 5 p.m. walk on Tuesday, December 31 begins at 4:30 p.m., with dinner following at 6:30 p.m. The New Year's Eve Walk & Dinner is open to all, but reservations are required for dinner.