Buyers

Pros and Cons of a 20% Down Payment You may have been told to put down 20% on a new home, but did you know that’s not a requirement? Lenders approve loans with much smaller down payments. Putting 20% down does have benefits, but it also has downsides and risks. Today, we’re taking you through the pros and cons of a 20% down payment. PRO: Lower Monthly Payment Making a substantial down payment will...

Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home in Early Fall Selling a home any time of year can come with its share of challenges, depending on market conditions. Putting extra effort into your Connecticut home can pay off and attract the right interest. The autumn season is no exception, but there are a few things you want to pass on if you’re looking to sell your Connecticut home this time of year. Here...

The Best Reasons to Buy a Home This Fall In the last official weeks of summer, autumn is on the horizon, the school year is starting, and many homebuyers are putting their search on hold. But what if we told you fall was actually a great time to buy? If you’re on the fence about buying now or waiting until the spring, read on for the best reasons to buy a home this fall.  Less Competition Many...

How to Figure Out If You're Financially Ready to Buy a House Buying a home in Connecticut is a huge financial step. Before you take the plunge, it is important to prepare accordingly. But how do you figure out if now is the right time? Today, we’re sharing some tips for how to figure out if you’re financially ready to buy a house.  Consider Your Debt-to-Income Ratio Lenders will consider your...

Renovation vs. New Construction: What You Need to Know If you’re looking for a completely customized home, a common question is whether to renovate an existing home or build a new construction home. While both options offer customization, each has pros and cons. Read on for factors to consider when deciding between a renovation or new construction. Investment Range One of the most critical factors in...

Starting Over in Central Connecticut: Part 1 By Ray Flynn of DIY Guys For working adults moving to the Connecticut River Valley and surrounding communities, a relocation can open a window for something bigger than a change of address. Here's how to use it well. Central Connecticut doesn't always make the shortlist when people talk about relocation destinations, and that's partly what makes it worth...

Is a Vacation Home a Worthwhile Investment? A vacation home can be a place for your family to relax and escape the pressures of daily life. Renting out the house can supplement your income and give you greater financial security. Whether you buy a vacation home for personal use or as a rental property, owning a second house is a large investment that should be planned carefully. Here are things to think...

Our Guide to Buying and Selling at the Same Time Buying and selling a home simultaneously is a complex process that requires planning, financial preparation, and expert coordination. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, managing both transactions at once can be stressful. The experts at Calcagni Real Estate are here to help! Read on for our top tips for ways to help streamline the...

Skip the Hamptons: Why Saybrook Point Is Connecticut's Best-Kept Coastal Secret Written by Mike Riccio for Rise Visual Media Every summer, thousands of New Yorkers and Bostonians make the same calculation: endure hours of LIE traffic for a weekend in the Hamptons, or stay home. There's a third option most haven't considered yet — and it's closer than you think. Saybrook Point sits at the mouth of the...

Must-Do Gardening Tasks for Early Spring Spring is here! The chill of winter has finally left, and the last of the snow has melted away. If you spent your days this winter dreaming of a lush garden, but aren’t sure where to start, read on. Today, we’re covering the must-do gardening tasks for early spring.  Prepare the soil.  Over the winter, garden beds remain untouched. Weeds may already be...