Is borrowing against your investments a good idea?
Posted in

Is borrowing against your investments a good idea?

One of the lesser-known benefits of a brokerage account is what’s called a portfolio line of credit, also known as a margin loan. With a portfolio line of credit your broker will lend you money against the value of your securities portfolio, using your stocks, bonds and funds as collateral for the loan. The larger your portfolio, the larger the amount you can borrow.

Here’s how a portfolio line of credit works and whether you should consider using one.

How a portfolio line of credit works

Many brokers allow their clients to take out a portfolio of lines of credit

8 simple ways to add old world charm to the kitchen
Posted in

8 simple ways to add old world charm to the kitchen

We’ve been working on all kinds of updates out in the cottage -from painting the built-in bookcases to changing some of the lighting. And the cottage kitchen got a fresh kitchen look recently too with a new kitchen island and lower cabinets.

We didn’t remove those original old cupboards – don’t worry. But since this photo was taken- the counters and sink might have changed just a bit. We now have butcher block counters and an antique farm sink in here. it is all about 3 easy ways to add some of that lovely old world charm to a kitchen.

America’s ‘most inbred family’ The Whittakers break silence on fame & big donations they’re using to improve their lives
Posted in

America’s ‘most inbred family’ The Whittakers break silence on fame & big donations they’re using to improve their lives

A FAMILY dubbed America’s most inbred has been able to make big improvements to their property thanks to thousands in donations sourced from good Samaritans online.

The Whitakers have long been the stuff of legend in their hometown of Odd, West Virginia.

The Whitaker family has been able to make significant improvements to their West Virginia ramshackle property

2

The Whitaker family has been able to make significant improvements to their West Virginia ramshackle propertyCredit: GOFUNDME
The severely inbred family is descended from two first cousins ​​who got married and had children

2

The severely inbred family is descended from two first cousins ​​who got married and had childrenCredit: YouTube/Soft White Underbelly

The family reportedly descended from two first cousins ​​who were married and had children, which is why many

How to create a magic filled table setting
Posted in

How to create a magic filled table setting

I am all about creating a setting full of magic. Whether it is a table for 2 or 20, a simple family gathering in the backyard or a special occasion get together. It’s all about setting the stage for a magical gathering that will treat your guests and create wonderful lasting memories.

Magic Filled Table setting

First and foremost when setting a table for friends or family – most folks think of what they will serve and plan the menu. My menu planning looks a little different. I don’t start with the food- I start with the ambiance and setting

Home improvement still high on families agenda
Posted in

Home improvement still high on families agenda

Apr. 7—Economic trends are keeping home improvement high on the agenda of area residents, said Raymond Builders Vice President Greg Wright.

The trend has continued since the mid-2010s but is especially strong right now due to economic issues.

“I think we are seeing, as interest rates increase, people are putting more money into their homes,” Wright said.

Forbes magazine highlighted numerous trends in the industry including more personalized space, more color in kitchens and a mix of indoor-outdoor space.

Wright said the popularity of outdoor landscaping and outdoor entertainment areas has grown. He said the home improvement industry in general

The secret to saving on home improvements?  Deduct HELOC interest
Posted in

The secret to saving on home improvements? Deduct HELOC interest

Home improvements can be costly. In fact, the typical homeowner spends around $6,000 annually just on repairs and maintenance, according to home insurance company Hippo. That’s not even including any updates or renovations you might want to make.

Fortunately, you may be able to offset those costs — at least a little — by using a home equity line of credit (HELOC) to pay for them.

Are you planning some home improvements this year? Here’s what to know about the HELOC tax deduction and how to take advantage of it.

Is HELOC interest tax deductible?

The interest you pay on

Porch Renovation-Sunroom Ideas – French Country Cottage
Posted in

Porch Renovation-Sunroom Ideas – French Country Cottage

First up- Happy First Day of Spring! I am SO READY for spring and I know so many of you have the same feeling. Winter has been a bit of a doozy and we are starting spring off with rainy weather and snow left over from the storms- but currently, as I am writing this post- there is a little break and the sunshine peeking through is giving me all the spring feelings!

Even though our house and yard look nothing like this beautiful scene right now- today’s post is about the front porch.

Front Porch Renovation Ideas

You know,

10 ways to add spring sunshine to your home in just a few minutes
Posted in

10 ways to add spring sunshine to your home in just a few minutes

It is March 1st and I am definitely thinking spring over here. Especially after the recent storms and damage that we are sorting now. We are staying out of the area currently because of storms and damage- so it’s all about today’s favorites and 10 simple, easy and quick ways to add a bit of spring warmth and sunshine to your home.

10 Ways to Add Spring Sunshine

#1. Clip a Few Branches

Adding spring to the house can be as easy as wandering outside to clip a few branches with blossoms from the yard. Though these are mostly just