Kathleen Finnegan

Author Archive

boost your curb appeal

  From simple upgrades to meticulous landscaping projects, there are dozens—if not hundreds—of ways to enhance your home's appearance. The improvements shown here won't break the bank and can be completed in a morning. Best of all, they'll make a dramatic difference that you'll appreciate every time you pull into your driveway. 1. Get out the power washer Your home has taken a beating over the winter. The front porch likely has a layer of dirt and salt scum, and the windows could... Continue Reading >

market update – at a glance

According to a new survey from Fannie Mae, credit availability is improving. For the first time in more than three years, the majority of consumers believe it’s easier to get a mortgage. “The gradual upward trend during the last few months bodes well for the housing recovery and may be contributing to this month’s increase in consumers’ intention to buy rather than rent their next home,” said Doug Duncan, chief economist for Fannie Mae. Mike Fratatoni, chief economist for the Mortgage... Continue Reading >

tips to prepare for home inspection

  When you get to the point of the inspection, you're nearing the finish line! Hopefully, the pointers mentioned below will help you cross it with ease! Home Inspection Tips to prepare your Home. 1) Make sure all interior and exterior light fixtures work. If an outdoor fixture bulb is out, the inspector has to note that the fixture does not operate correctly. 2) Provide access to the furnace, water heater and electrical panel. Also, the inspector must be able to remove the electrical panel... Continue Reading >

city of Calabasas earth day

Join the City of Calabasas Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 12th at Las Virgenes Creek (Las Virgenes and Agoura Roads, behind the Starbucks) from 2pm to 5pm for an afternoon of fun. Over 1,200 people attended last year's event. Free admission! The celebration will feature over 50 vendors, exhibits, entertainment, recycling art contest, learning booths, informational speakers, wildlife presentation and activities that focus on the environment. For more information Click Here Thanks for reading! Continue Reading >

down payments – is bigger better?

Most homebuyers have to finance most of the home's purchase price with a mortgage. The amount you put down upfront determines the size of the mortgage. A conventional mortgage usually requires a down payment of 20% of the purchase price of the house. Here are a few reasons to save for a bigger down payment. 1. Reduced mortgage payments The more you put down on your home upfront, the smaller your mortgage payments will be. That could help your monthly budget. More... Continue Reading >

luck o’ the Irish – Calabasas St. Patty’s day

Here's a fun way to celebrate the life of Ireland's Saint Patrick, right here in Calabasas. St. Patrick's Day celebration The City of Calabasas will have a free Saint Patrick's Day Celebration on Saturday, March 15th from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at the . There will be Irish food, entertainment, face painting, rock climbing, moon bounce, photo shoots, sports and activities for the kids. Irish band Innisfree, The Claddagh School of Irish Dancers and The Tribal Caravan of Belly Dancers will be performing. Agoura Hills/Calabasas Community... Continue Reading >

5 mortage tips for home buyers

Here are a few tips for home buyers on securing a mortgage, getting the best rate, and more. 1. Be prepared to document your finances. Buyers should be prepared for extra review by lenders when underwriting mortgages due to new mortgage regulations that took effect in January, particularly in proving borrowers’ ability to repay their loans. Borrowers should be prepared to show bank statements, tax returns, W-2s, investment accounts, and documentation of any other assets they own. Also, they should be prepared to... Continue Reading >

is there a season to sell?

  Many homeowners want to know, "When is the best time of year to sell my house?" The conventional wisdom is that spring and summer are best. However, there are exceptions, and there are advantages and disadvantages to selling in any season. Here's the information you need to improve your chances of selling your property for a good price in any season. Spring Advantages of Selling in Spring From late spring through mid-summer, home sales are generally highest. Many homes come on the market... Continue Reading >

spicy jalapeno margaritas

  Happy Friday! I just wanted to pop in for a minute and share this easy recipe for the spicy margaritas we served at our margarita party a few weeks ago. They were such a big hit – tart, smooth, not too sweet, and most importantly – spicy. The perfect refreshing cocktail for a Valentines day! Jalapeño margaritas Yield: party size - fills 1 pitcher Ingredients ◾3 cups good (plain) tequila ◾1 cup Grand Marnier ◾1.5 cups fresh lime juice ◾1 cup simple syrup (or sub agave syrup... Continue Reading >

building a family budget, that works!

  As distasteful as the task may seem, it really is important to map out your expenses and purchases so you can see just where your money is going. The following tips can help you build a budget that actually works. 1. Opt for simplicity. You can harness the power of Excel spreadsheets, Quicken and other software programs, but there’s also nothing wrong with using an old-fashioned pencil and piece of paper. The main objective is to figure out whether you need or... Continue Reading >