The simple answer is: an offer to purchase a home that the seller has accepted, but won’t be finalized until certain conditions are met. That’s the comprehensively brief explanation. But what’s worth digging into are the kinds of contingent offers you may come across as a buyer or seller. Here are some of the most […]
Military Member
Purple Heart Day: a Brief History
On May 3rd, 1783, Sergeants William Brown and Elijah Churchill of the Continental Army each received a piece of purple cloth in the shape of a heart with the word MERIT sewn on it. On June 10th, Sergeant Daniel Bissell received one as well. The awards were called Badges of Military Merit. Initially announced by […]
A Quick Guide to HOA Fees
If you’re considering buying a home in a gated, planned, co-op, otherwise organized community, or condominium complex you’ll come across the phrase “Homeowner’s Association” (or its abbreviated form: HOA). If you’re unfamiliar with this term, here’s a quick explanation: HOA’s oversee the management, upkeep and community standards of your neighborhood. Most often, real estate developers […]
12 Questions to Ask Before Renting
Looking for a home to rent – particularly if it’s your first time – can be an intimidating under-taking. While your exact needs and wants are probably as unique as you are, the process of seeking and signing for the right lease is a common one with common factors. Here are a dozen all-inclusive points […]
Renting a Home: Lease Tips
Even when it’s temporary, moving into a home of your own is always a thrill. Whether you’re accustomed to living with roommates, your parents, or with dozens (or more) of coworkers crammed into a barracks, not much compares to that amazing feeling of opening the door to walk into your house or apartment for the […]
10 Tips for Renting a Home
Renting your first off-base house or apartment can seem overwhelming, particularly if you’re used to the relatively simple process of showing up and moving into base housing, a barracks, or a BOQ. While moving off base, on your own or with a family, is certainly a much more complicated process, it doesn’t have to be […]
What is a Good Credit Score for Renting an Apartment?
Home ownership may be one of the big components of the American Dream but, if you’re on active duty, chances are you’re renting. If you aren’t ready to buy your dream house just yet, we get it – especially when you have to PCS across the country (or, sometimes, the world) every few years. So […]
4th of July 2019 Military Discounts
While the traditional way to honor July 4th is with grilled meat, good times, and legally blowing things up without having to trek to the nearest live fire range, there’s really no wrong way to celebrate the anniversary of our nation’s independence. But a great part of this holiday that everybody can probably agree on […]
Operation Camp: How You Can Help Send Military Kids to Camp This Summer
Going to camp is a rite of passage for many children. Between game nights, bonfires, and team building activities, camp is not only a fun and enriching experience–it’s an opportunity for kids to establish a sense of independence and resilience. Military children in particular benefit greatly from attending camp. Challenges Faced by Military Children As […]
A Veteran’s Advice for PTSD Awareness
“I do not have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.” That’s not a denial or defensive statement, it’s just a fact. I was lucky enough that my years in service, while by no means easy, did not include any trauma worse than the aftermath of a few undercooked Afghan meals. And those effects were blessedly short-lived. That […]