QUESTION: I’m thinking about installing new flooring in my home. What are some of the pros and cons of the most popular flooring types?

ANSWER: Choosing the flooring in your home is an important decision, but since several flooring types exist, making a decision can be difficult. Hardwood flooring is both highly attractive and durable. However, hardwood flooring needs frequent maintenance and can warp.

Carpet is a great flooring option if you want something inexpensive that feels great underfoot. However, carpet floorings are also vulnerable to stains and wear out relatively quickly compared to other floors.

Tile is beneficial because it has a long lifespan, is available in several styles, and is simple to clean. Tile floors can be more challenging to install, can break over time, and require regular grout cleaning.

Laminate floors offer a low-cost, easy installation and standard pre-finish. However, these floors are vulnerable to moisture damage and can’t be refinished.

Source: U.S. News & World Report Real Estate

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Dear First Class Mortgage,

“What does a good REALTOR® look like?”

-Merry of Maple Grove, MN

Hi Merry,
That is an excellent question! Here are some things to keep in mind and look for when finding your REALTOR®:

They should…

•    Effectively communicate with you and adapt to what communication style you prefer: text messages, email, phone, or good ol’ face-to-face interaction
•    Listen to what you want and actively search based on your needs and desires
•    Confirm they’re on the right track with the house hunt, and make adjustments when necessary
•    Understand your time frame and why you are purchasing and/or selling
•    List your home with an appropriate price
•    Utilize all marketing tools necessary to make your home stand out when listing: social media, top-notch photography, posting on Multiple Listing Services (MLS), etc.
•    Confirm that an interested buyer is pre-approved
•    Negotiate to get you the best offer

And, verify that they are…

•    Organized and detail oriented
•    Local experts- they know the area inside and out
•    Willing to provide a list of their clients as references

First Class Mortgage has had the pleasure of working with excellent local real estate agents.  We would love to refer one of them to you! Call or email us today for more information.

Remember that it is always a good idea to get pre-approved prior to starting the house hunt. Apply today!

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