We’ve all heard of various things that should never be disposed of in the kitchen sink- grease, pasta, potato peels, but milk?! Yes, indeed. While it may not damage or clog your pipes, pouring milk down your drain is actually terrible for the environment. It takes a lot of oxygen to break down milk, taking oxygen away from living organisms that need it to survive. Large amounts of milk have even been known to suffocate entire ecosystems. In fact, some places fine businesses for disposal of milk down drains. 

 

So if your milk is getting close to expiring, find another way to dispose of it- maybe a tasty batch of rice pudding, homemade Greek yogurt, or even fresh ricotta.

 


Other no-nos for your drains:

Cooking Oil and Grease: Two of…

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Essential Factors to Consider for First-Time Home Buyers

Buying a home for the first time requires that you get all the details right. You may pop a bottle of champagne to celebrate your victory and success only to regret the decision later. These tips will help you navigate the process and help you to save some money while you get the desired property. 

Understand Your Financial Health

Owning a house comes with additional expenses such as property taxes, maintenance costs, utility costs, and others. You need to understand your budget and the maximum amount you aim to spend on acquiring a home. For first-time buyers, expensive neighborhoods can put you into debt. Large houses with spaces that you may not need will increase your running costs and…

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In a seller's market, a buyer has to be ready to take action at a moment's notice. Some houses get offers within minutes of the listing going live. Your realtor has to be accessible and working with your best interests in mind in order for the transaction to go as smoothly as possible. If your realtor will not respond to your calls, it might be time to fire them and work with someone else. Here are some tips on what to do when you have a non-responsive realtor.

 

Consider the Issue From Their Perspective

 

Before you take a hasty action, think about the issue from the realtor's perspective. They might be closing a deal with another client at the moment of your call. If you are calling them after 10:00 p.m. on a weeknight or at 6:00 a.m. on a…

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USDA Home Loans are a viable alternative for financing the purchase of a residential property, especially for first-time buyers. USDA is an acronym that means United States Department of Agriculture. In the past, these loans were used primarily to help finance the acquisition of properties in rural areas. However, in recent years, the program has expanded to include the purchase of homes in most areas of the country that are outside of major metropolitan areas

 

Types of USDA Home Loans



The USDA offers two types of loans for the purchase of single-family properties: guaranteed rural housing loans and direct rural housing loans. Guaranteed loans are the most common type of USDA loans. They have higher income limits as they allow…

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While social media and social network platforms have been great for reconnecting with friends, family members and individuals from across the globe, it serves a myriad of other purposes that can come in handy in everyday life. If you are currently in the market for a new home, consider using social network platforms to help you find a home that is not only within your price range but is also truly reflective of the home you envision for you and your family.

 

Let Your Network Know You're in the Real Estate Market

 

If you already have established social media accounts, reach out to your family members, friends and even your business associates to let them know that you are in the real estate market. Sharing a public post informing others that…

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When you are thinking about buying a home, location is likely to be one of the biggest factors in your decision. You might want to shorten your commute to work, live close to good schools or choose a home that is close to places you often visit, such as parks, libraries or shopping centers. Some people like a quiet, out-of-the-way neighborhood, while others want to be close to where the action is. Here are some of the pros and cons of relocating near a freeway.

 

Easy Commute

 

If you have to drive to and from work every day, living near a freeway might add convenience to your commute. Freeways are often the fastest way to travel a longer distance. You could avoid the hassle of stop-and-go traffic on city streets by using the freeway for as…

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Is there anything as emotionally enriching as moving into a new living space specially designed just for you? From the décor and floors to the kitchen countertops, you get to be in charge of customizing some aspects to fit your taste in your newly acquired home. While it’s relatively easy to be taken away by the ambiance of a new home, it’s important to consider both the pros and cons.

 

Advantages



• Advanced building standards: New building codes are being set up every other day in line with the recommended construction etiquette. It’s relatively easy to come across old homes that lack basic attics and safety measures. You can be assured of proper insulation and modern protective gear with any new home, though.

• Home warranties: Many…

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Greenville is one of those small towns with that big city atmosphere. The town offers everyone plenty of action. Whether going out for the nightlife or seeking a popular dining establishment, those who come to visit can find an assortment of things to do.

 

1. The Heart of Downtown



People love to walk through the downtown district during the day and night. They enjoy the large sidewalks and popular restaurants for outdoor dining. Greenville is a friendly area to associate with visitors and residents. Plenty of shopping opportunities are available for those who prefer to purchase items to take home. Downtown Greenville is buzzing with patrons until late at night.

 

2. A Strong Economy Offering Excellent Employment Opportunity



…

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You can qualify as a first-time homebuyer even if you have owned a home before. This means you may qualify for first-time homebuyer benefits and loans if you haven’t owned your principal residence for the last three years or more. These benefits include low or no down payment FHA loans, VA loans, USDA Loans, renovation loans and other programs for first-time homebuyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, the average age for first-time homebuyers is 32 years. 

 

Real Estate Is a Good Investment



If you have the income and time to become a homeowner, you will have a good investment for your future. Buying a home is usually the biggest investment a person makes in his or her life. This is why you need a plan to enter the…

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Buying a house is one of the largest purchases, if not the largest purchase you will make in your life. Before signing your name on the mortgage documents, it is wise to spend some time doing your homework. In addition to having the property and house inspected for structural and pest problems, it is also a good idea to look at other factors that could affect your enjoyment, safety and use of the property and home.

 

Review Local Crime Statistics

 

Whether you have children or you like to spend time walking outdoors in the neighborhood, it is a wise move to review local crime statistics. Take a look at both bodily injury crimes and property crimes. Chances are good that as a homeowner, you might occasionally forget to lock your windows, or you…

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