Renovations & Remodeling

child using a smart thermostat under a woman's supervision.

7 Smart Home Upgrades That Add Real Convenience & Value

The idea of a “smart home” can be exciting. Lights that turn on automatically, a thermostat you control from your phone, or a fridge that tells you when you’re out of milk – it all sounds futuristic! But not every gadget lives up to the promise. Some are expensive and fussy, some don’t really increase your home’s value, and some are just waiting for better tech before they’re actually worth the squeeze.

How Much Should I Budget for Renovations and Repairs Over the Lifetime of a Home?

Owning a home takes more than just paying your mortgage. It’s also about keeping up with repairs, maintenance, and the occasional renovation to keep your property safe, efficient, and enjoyable. But how much should you actually budget for all of that, especially over decades of ownership?

Renovations & Remodeling

What Is a Home Improvement Loan? Financing Options Explained

If you're planning a renovation, you may be wondering: What is a home improvement loan? Despite the popularity of the term, there isn’t really a single loan by that name. It’s actually a catch-all term that refers to any financing used to upgrade, repair, or renovate a home.

Person making a plan in reference to eshl vs home equity loan renovations

Renovations & Remodeling

Equity Sharing Home Loan vs Home Equity Loan for Renovations

Many homeowners turn to their home equity as a source of cash, and one of the most common options is a traditional home equity loan. However, there might be an even better path, depending on your situation: an Equity Sharing Home Loan (ESHL).

Beautiful kitchen that is an example of a big ticket renovation worth doing.

Renovations & Remodeling

Big Ticket Renovations Worth Doing: Which Major Upgrades Pay Off (and Which Don’t)

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably have one (or more!) “dream” renovations. Think big, transformative upgrades that change how your home looks, feels, and functions. But when those projects come with price tags in the tens or even hundreds of thousands, it can be hard to decide which ones are truly worth it.

Renovations & Remodeling

2026 Home Renovation Outlook: How Homeowners Are Funding Projects Without Refinancing

Even in an uncertain housing market, homeowners continue to invest in their homes — not necessarily to flip them, but to make them more functional, efficient, and comfortable. In 2026, renovations are less about luxury upgrades and more about...