Modern trends in luxury homes are not just about location, size or specific decor, but reflecting the sophistication of their buyers. Buyers in today’s luxury home market desire innovative features that enhance their quality of life, provide extra touches of relaxation and use smart technology to increase safety and security. Junaid Siddiqi, CFO for the developer of the exclusive Four Seasons Private Residences in Baltimore, offers some of the latest trends seen in today's luxury home Continue Reading ...

As the seasons turn, your focus begins to shift to the outdoors. Your deck or patio becomes your new living room — an ideal setting for memorable moments with friends and family. If you look at these spaces and long for a refresh, the time to start planning is now. You have options, and many you can do yourself with minimal effort. To start, if you don't have a deck or patio, research materials carefully before making an investment. One prevalent building trend involves making the smart Continue Reading ...

It is a common misconception that a 20 percent down payment is required to buy a home. Advice to wait and save a large down payment is often based on the theory that the cost of mortgage insurance (MI), which is required when you buy with a smaller down payment, should be avoided. This may not be the best advice and is, in fact, not in line with market trends, considering the median down payment for first-time homebuyers is 7 percent, according to the National Association of Realtors. Yes, Continue Reading ...

Getting married means a whole lot of changes, including combining households, not the least of which could be moving to a new house or apartment. Whether you’re getting a brand-new place for the both of you or one of you is shifting all your earthly possessions to join your spouse, it’s a good idea to take proactive steps to make crossing that new threshold is a little easier. Here are a few tips for taking some of the stress out of moving day — for both of you. * Continue Reading ...

Today’s tile trends extend so far beyond their traditional use as a staple of bathroom design that you may not recognize them. While once the most attractive and innovative tiles had to be imported, contemporary handcrafted tile and stone products for home design are now being made right here in the United States. Homeowners and interior designers alike are always seeking distinctive visual touches to make each home special. Here are five ways tile design can enhance a room. Elevate small Continue Reading ...

The homebuying process is exciting, but can also seem fraught with added costs, like a home inspection, title insurance, and closing costs. And if you can’t afford a full 20 percent down payment on a conventional home loan, then you will most likely pay for private mortgage insurance (MI). Some people consider private MI yet another added cost, but it helps creditworthy middle-income homebuyers qualify for home financing sooner with a low down payment. Is it really an added cost if it saves Continue Reading ...