If a word cloud were to arise out of the average house closing, the biggest words (after “sign here and initial there”) would probably be MORTGAGE, followed maybe by APR. But ranking right up there in big capital letters as well, would be INSURANCE.

Country Mouse or City Mouse? In early America those were the choices; life in a rural community where people either worked as farmers or in the occupations sustaining them or a home in the city, usually built around industry or commerce, where there were more varied employment opportunities.

Maybe you had every intention of finally buying a home. But lost in those lazy, hazy days was what is supposed to be prime home buying and selling season.

A roof over your head. That pretty much concludes any discussion of similarities between buying and owning a condominium versus a single family house. The legal structure, rights of ownership, utility, availability, responsibilities of ownership, and even the smart way to purchase one is quite different from the other. So, in this issue, we present your condominium primer.

Not so long ago credit reporting was the black hole of lending. Most people knew they had a credit report but had no idea what it might contain.

Like other important life decisions, choices abound: Should you rent an apartment or buy a home? And if you buy, what kind of property should it be? A condo in a high-rise building, or a single-family home in the ‘burbs?

Younger Boomers, ages 53 to 61, are now approaching their retirement years. They are also “the caretaker” generation, and tend to be the biggest buyers of multi-generational homes, so they can accommodate aging parents or young people who are moving back home. Older Boomers are the next oldest segment, aged 62 to 71.

Welcome to your newly updated home, circa June 2018. Rich textures, creature comfort, and a feeling for natural materials, especially indoor plants, are among the current themes in home decor.