Gema Smith's Blog

Posted on 11/24/2024
How to get equity out of your home: Alternative methods
Paying off credit card balances and consolidating debt...
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Posted on 11/22/2024
Financial Tips for Seniors: A Guide to Securing Your Future
As we age, financial priorities often shift, and it’s essential for seniors to take a proactive approach to managing their finances. Whether you're nearing retirement or have already stepped into that phase, smart planning can ensure that your later years are both enjoyable and financially secure. A well-thought-out strategy not only helps with day-to-day expenses but can also...
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Posted on 11/22/2024
Aging with Dignity: Why Senior Living Could Be the Right Choice
As we age, it becomes more evident that time doesn’t slow down, and the need for support grows with it. With life expectancy increasing due to advances in healthcare and technology, many individuals over the age of 65 will find themselves in need of some level of assistance. Although staying in one's own home might seem like the...
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Posted on 11/22/2024
6 Effective Ways to Enhance Physical Health in Older Adults
Promoting physical health in older adults is essential for maintaining independence, mobility, and overall well-being. Below are six tried-and-true actions that support physical health, offering tangible benefits even for those with chronic conditions. These practices can make a significant difference, whether or not an individual is already dealing with age-related health concerns. They also overlap with recommendations for...
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Posted on 11/22/2024
Why Real Estate is a Smart Addition to Your Retirement Plan
Planning for retirement is a cornerstone of financial security, and as you approach your later years, it’s essential to ensure your strategy is both robust and diversified. While traditional retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are foundational, integrating real estate into your retirement portfolio can offer unique benefits. Here's a closer look at why real estate deserves a...
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Posted on 11/18/2024
More Homes, Slower Price Growth – What It Means for You as a Buyer
There are more homes on the market right now than there have been in years – and that could be a game changer for you if you’re ready to buy. Let’s look at two reasons why. You Have More Options To Choose From An article from Realtor.com helps explain just how much the number of homes for sale...
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Posted on 11/18/2024
Don’t Let These Two Concerns Hold You Back from Selling Your House
If you’re debating whether or not you want to sell right now, it might be because you’ve got some unanswered questions, like if moving really makes sense in today’s market. Maybe you’re wondering if it’s even a good idea to move right now. Or you’re stressed because you think you won't find a house you like. To put...
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Posted on 11/17/2024
Do Prayer Plants Bloom? A Basic Guide for Plant Owner's
Prayer plants are popular houseplants because of their vividly colored leaves. Like most tropical plants, it's uncommon for prayer plants to bloom when kept as houseplants. However, given the right conditions, you might still notice the pleasant surprise of flowers on your prayer plant. Here is a basic guide to what you should know about prayer plant blooms:...
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Posted on 11/11/2024
The Majority of Veterans Are Unaware of a Key VA Loan Benefit
For over 79 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped countless Veterans achieve the dream of homeownership. But according to Veterans United, only 3 in 10 Veterans realize they may be able to buy a home without needing a down payment (see visual below): That’s why it’s so important for Veterans – and anyone who cares about...
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Posted on 11/11/2024
Expect the Unexpected: Anticipating Volatility in Today’s Housing Market
You’ve probably noticed one thing if you’re thinking about making a move: the housing market feels a bit unpredictable right now. The truth is, from home prices to mortgage rates, we’re seeing more volatility – and it’s important to understand why. At a high-level, let’s break down what’s happening and the best way to navigate it. What’s Driving...
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Posted on 11/10/2024
Black interior design tips for sleek home decor
Have you ever been curious about adding dark hues to...
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Posted on 11/04/2024
Is a Fixer Upper Right for You?
Looking to buy a home but feeling like almost everything is out of reach? Here’s the thing. There’s still a way to become a homeowner, even when affordability seems like a huge roadblock – and it might be with a fixer upper. Let’s dive into why buying a fixer upper could be your ticket to homeownership and how...
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