Loss of use coverage is part of every standard homeowners insurance policy. While other portions of the policy help pay for repairing your home if it’s severely damaged, loss of use coverage is there for your everyday living expenses while the work is done.

Unfortunately, major home repairs can’t happen overnight, and simultaneously your expenses can increase dramatically. Loss of use coverage can help support you financially until you’re able to move back into your home.

To help you learn more about how home insurance works, here is a basic guide to what your loss of use coverage includes:

Additional living expenses (ALE)

Loss of use coverage includes additional living expenses, or ALE, to help you maintain your normal standard of living while temporarily relocated. The details can vary from one provider to the next, but these are the major types of expenses you can claim from insurance:

• Temporary residence, such as hotel stays or short-term rentals.
• Fuel and transportation costs.
• Rental cars.
• Dry cleaning and laundry services.
• Storage for personal belongings.
• Additional childcare costs.
• Pet boarding.

What else is covered?

Loss of use coverage also provides financial support for loss of rental income. If a room you normally rent out is damaged, fair rental value coverage can temporarily pay rent on behalf of your tenants. Therefore, you’re reimbursed for the payments you would otherwise lose.

One important thing to remember about the fair rental value coverage is that it only covers the rent payments and not the tenant’s personal property. This will be covered by the tenant’s own rental insurance policy.

Loss of use coverage is included automatically in most homeowners insurance policies. However, things like limits and exceptions can vary among providers. The more you understand about the details of your coverage, the more prepared you will be in case you ever need to file a claim.

Home repair loans provide financing for home improvement projects. These projects can become expensive, and sometimes financial help is needed. Here are some basic reasons to get a home improvement loan for your project:

Should you get a home repair loan?

An unsecured personal loan is great for small to mid-sized undertakings. For example, you may want to add new flooring and countertops in your kitchen, or upgrade your bathroom.

This type of loan is typically easier to obtain than home equity loans, but your credit score and income information are still big factors. These influence your monthly payments, loan amount and interest rate.

Common reasons to get a home improvement loan

A common reason for home improvement loans is to increase the value of a property. This loan allows you to complete projects that may make your home more appealing on the market. You might also need a home improvement loan to make your space more comfortable.

Forgo putting your home at risk

Unlike a home equity loan, home improvement loans are safer. You don’t have to offer collateral to get this type of loan. Unsecured personal loans are primarily obtained through personal information. This includes your credit score and income.

Quick financing

Home improvement loans are fairly quick to receive. You can be given a lump sum amount for the whole loan. In some cases, you can receive this funding within a day.

Increase the value of your home

Home improvement projects can boost the value of your home. Valuable additions like finishing a basement or building a deck can produce major returns on your investment.

When it’s time to start home improvement projects, proper financing is a must. You may require a personal loan, or your project may be larger and require a secured loan. Speak with a local lender to find out which loan options are best for you. 

Homeowners face significant housing decisions as their ranks grow. It may be worthwhile to consider making strategic home improvements to maximize the space already present in the house for new additions to the household. Cost-effective investments into a starter home can increase property values. These rank among the top renovations for giving growing households more breathing room.

1: Build a master bedroom suite addition

Depending on regional materials and labor costs, the average cost of a home addition generally hovers between $100 and $200 per square foot. A brand new master bedroom usually enjoys a footprint of 200-250 square feet.

Homeowners may be inclined to finance the cost of an expansion, so it doesn’t overwhelm their monthly budget. Adding a luxurious master bedroom with a private bathroom typically delivers a 52% return on investment.

2: Transition to an open floor plan

Remodeling a starter home by removing non-load-bearing walls to make it feel more spacious remains a tried-and-true design strategy. The open floor plan layout reportedly took hold before World War II and has enjoyed hot- and cold-trending acceptance ever since.

These designs are anything but complicated. They typically employ a floor plan that merges the following rooms:

• Kitchen and dining room
• Dining room and living room
• Kitchen, dining room and living room

Some take the layout a step further by leveraging sliding glass doors leading to outdoor spaces such as decks, patios and verandas. The underlying strategy is to increase usable square footage by eliminating walls and visual obstacles that make living spaces feel smaller.

Open floor plans provide added benefits, such as easier child monitoring and increased socialization, among others. Because this renovation requires only nominal building materials, it ranks among the more cost-effective ways to give household members a sense of spaciousness.

3: Transform an attic into a room

Attic floors can be upgraded to the same level of quality and attractiveness as other rooms in the home. Rafters, likewise, can have the exposed lumber and insulation covered with sheetrock or tongue-in-groove wood materials that deliver a natural decor.

Growing households may want to consult with a contractor about cost-effective attic possibilities before assuming the space is off limits. Add a skylight, and it may become the most sought-after room in the home.

Preparing for a hurricane requires knowing how to keep everyone in your home safe–including your pets. Having an emergency plan for your pets as well as the people in your household will help you stay calm and safe if a hurricane happens in your area. Here are some tips for keeping your pets safe during a hurricane:

Set Up an Emergency Kit

Pets have their own important needs in a disaster, just like humans do. Create an emergency kit specifically for your pets in case of an emergency so it’s ready to go at a moment’s notice. Include food and water for a minimum of three days, any medications and waste-removal supplies. It’s also a good idea to keep an extra leash or harness as well as comfort items like a blanket or favorite toy to keep your animals calm.

Use a Pet Rescue Alert Sticker

Rescue alert stickers are crucial if you need to evacuate your home. They’re a simple and inexpensive way to tell rescue workers and emergency services how many and what kinds of pets you have in your home so that nobody gets left behind. Mark the number and types of pets you have in your home and update as needed. Place the sticker somewhere near your front door or somewhere else that’s easily viewable to first responders or other emergency workers.

Know Where to Shelter

Emergency shelters do not always allow you to bring pets, so it’s important to know where you can bring them if you’re forced to evacuate. Plan for where to take your pets and keep a quick reference of relevant contact information. Try asking your vet if they have any suggestions for shelters or kennels. You can also search for hotels and motels that allow pets, and inquire at your local animal shelter about emergency lodging.

Your pets are part of your family, and as such they need just as much help staying safe during a hurricane as you and your fellow humans. Keep these three things in mind when determining how to prepare for the possibility of a hurricane.

Searching for a new home as a buyer can be time consuming and take much effort. Attending a home showing can give you much insight into whether the property fits what you’re on the market for, however it’s ideal to use your time wisely. Home showings can take an hour or more, so it’s best to prepare beforehand to make the most of your time before and after a showing.

Putting together all the stats on the home

Before attending a home showing, one of the best ways to get raw details on the property is by pulling up the listing online.  From here you can get access to key details such as listing price, how many rooms are in the property, square footage and much more.

You can figure out if the home is within your budget and has the space and amenities to accommodate you and your household. You can also see how long the property has been on the market, which may be an indication of its desirability to other potential home buyers.

Check out the neighborhood

Although the house itself may fit your home owning goals on paper, does the neighborhood match your expectations as well? Checking out the neighborhood ahead of time can give you a better picture of what life may appear like in that community.

Are there parks, schools and grocery stores nearby? Or perhaps the location is more remote and daily chores will require a bit of extra driving. Knowing this info can help in your decision to attend the home showing or foregoing it all together.

If the neighborhood is more than a few minutes of driving away, you can check out the home and its surroundings online via mapping tools that allow you to see the street view.

With a bit of preparation and planning, you can figure out important pieces of information before even setting foot in a home to help you decide if that property is worth viewing in person at all.

Your bedroom is probably the most personal space in your house – and one of the most relaxing. However, it often goes without the same effort as other rooms regarding décor.

If you are looking to start a new project, here are a few great DIY options for your bedroom:

Floral garland backdrop

To create a whimsical or magical atmosphere in your bedroom, consider creating a floral garland backdrop as an accent on one of your bedroom walls. This is a quick and easy DIY project to take on.

All you need to do is purchase silk flower garland from a local craft supply store, and cut it into equal parts. Then, hang the garland vertically along the wall of your choosing. Adding this DIY project to your room will help bring some of the natural elements of the outdoors inside, with minimal effort.

Fairy light headboard

Sometimes one of the best ways to bring a sense of peace and calm into your bedroom is to add alternative lighting to the space. A fairy light headboard can add a playful vibe to your bedroom while simultaneously creating a relaxed atmosphere.

To create this headboard, purchase a sheer fabric, such as tulle. You will also want to have white mini lights available to complete the project. Attach the mini lights to the tulle, and then hang the tulle from your ceiling behind your bed. In a matter of moments, you will have a beautiful yet affordable headboard.

Reclaimed barn wood headboard

Rather than purchasing an expensive furniture set or having a custom piece made for you, you can craft your own headboard. Piece reclaimed barn wood together and create a structured headboard. You can finish the barn wood as-is, using a clear finisher, or you can paint it to your preference for a customized aesthetic.

When you create a relaxing space, you will find you actually rest easier. Your bedroom is the place where you can go to get away from it all, and it should be filled with all the things that are completely you.

Knowing the assessed value of a particular property can be a huge help in buying, selling or refinancing. However, with multiple valuation methods and terms available, it can be difficult to distinguish one from the other. Luckily, there are some simple ways to find the assessed value of your home. Here are the basics:

What is assessed value?

The assessed value of a property refers to the estimated amount your home would sell for. This value is key in determining how much you pay in property taxes every year. A lower assessed value will generally equal lower tax rates and vice versa.

How do you calculate assessed value?

To find the assessed value of your home, you would need to know a few other variables first. One is a percentage known as an “assessment rate” determined by the local county or other municipality. You also need the market value of your home, which can be determined by a real estate agent, and the appraised value, which you can get from a professional appraisal.

To calculate the assessed value, you multiply the market value by the assessment rate. For example:

Assessed value = (Market value x Assessment rate) / 100

If you’re planning to sell or buy a home, it’s important to familiarize yourself with these terms. Even if you’re not planning to buy or sell, knowing your home’s value can help you make more informed financial decisions.

Symmetrical balance is a crucial part of interior design. The arrangement of furnishings and decorative pieces in a space can have a profound effect on the overall aesthetic, regardless of the style of the room. To help you achieve a symmetrical or asymmetrical balance in your home decorating, here is a simple guide to the basics:

Symmetrical balance tips

Symmetrical balance is simple to achieve by repeating elements on both sides of an “axis” or center line of your space. Some ways to make your design symmetrically balanced include:

• Use pairs of furnishings like armchairs, love seats, cabinets, wall art, light fixtures or side tables.
• Repeat colors in the decor on both sides of the room.
• Use single objects to draw focus to the center of the room. Some good examples might be a large sofa, dining table or coffee table.
• Arrange furniture to evenly surround an architectural focal point such as a window or fireplace.

Asymmetrical balance tips

Asymmetrical balance might seem difficult to create at first, but once you know the basics, you’ll find it a natural and informal way to decorate your space. Some tips for asymmetrical balance include:

• Avoid matching pairs of furnishings.
• Try corner sectionals or curved sofas.
• Place furnishings diagonally, either in corners or towards a focal point.
• Play with high and low furnishings on opposite sides of the room. For instance, a tall cupboard opposite a low bench, or a tall floor lamp opposite a small table or wall fixture.
• Tie back one side of your drapes and let the other hang straight down.

Each type of symmetrical balance plays an important part in every room’s design. Depending on the size and shape of the space you’re working with, one type of balance might be more effective than the other. While remembering these tips can help you plan your layouts, it ultimately comes down to your preference and what you feel works best with your personal design style.

Flooding can cause significant damage to your home and even make it uninhabitable in worst-case scenarios. Floods can lead to mold growth, wood rot and other types of water damage that can be costly to repair. Taking steps to prevent floods from occurring can protect your home from this kind of damage. Use these flood prevention tips to keep your house safe from serious water damage.

Seal Gaps in Your Foundation

Cracks and other gaps in your foundation can easily let flood waters in. Closing them up helps protect your home from flooding. Check your foundation for any gaps, and seal them up with hydraulic cement or masonry caulk. You should also check your basement walls for gaps and cracks, and close these up using waterproofing materials.

Keep Floor Drain Areas Clear

Flooding doesn’t always come from rain or outside water sources. Your home can also flood from the inside. If you have any floor drains in your basement or laundry room, make sure the surrounding areas are kept clear and free of clutter or debris. Otherwise, water can build up inside your home instead of going down these drains. You should also look into installing drain plugs and sewer backflow valves to prevent sewage from flooding your home.

Improve Grading in Your Yard

Check for trouble spots where water tends to pool or collect when it rains. Water should be flowing away from your foundation rather than heading toward it or building up near it. Make changes to your landscaping to improve grading, such as filing up any sunken spots close to your foundation or digging channels that direct water away from your home. This helps prevent water from pooling close to your home.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts in Good Condition

Gutters and downspouts move water away from your home, which helps lower the risk of flooding. Clean your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year or more often if needed, such as after storms. Have your gutters and downspouts inspected to check for signs of damage that needs to be repaired.

Put Flood Vents in Your Garage or Crawlspace

Flood vents allow water to move through enclosed areas to stop water pressure from building up inside homes. This helps protect your walls and foundation from severe water damage during floods. Flood vents need to be kept clear to work properly.

One essential part of the home selling process is how you advertise your property. Having quality photos can make or break the first perception potential homebuyers have of your property, so avoiding a few rookie mistakes can help you maintain the quality of your listing photos.

Not taking enough photos

In the age of digital photography, you can never take too many pictures. Try to experiment with different lighting, angles and setups, and don’t shy away from taking as many photos as necessary to get the perfect shots, showcasing your beautiful property.

Avoid close-ups

Your home should be spotlessly clean and tidy when taking photos; however, you don’t have to get a shot of every small nook and cranny. Instead, consider taking wide shots, which can help your home appear spacious and more welcoming.

Be mindful of mirror reflections & other distractions

Even the best shot in the world can be ruined when unplanned objects or reflections of shadows appear of the photographer. These things can distract your audience from the focus of the photo, your home. Plan your angles so you don’t get any flashes, glare or reflections in your photographs.

It’s best to take your pets out of the room or area before you start shooting photos. Remember, potential home buyers may not love your cat or dog in the same way you do.

Not using time of day to your advantage

The different (or lack) of lighting your home receives throughout the day can make or break your photos. Consider taking photos of your home at midday, when there are the least number of shadows present.

Then, take some photos at golden hour (just before the sun sets) to capture warmer tones. Finally, right after dusk, turn the lights on inside your home and take some shots from outside to give the illusion of a warm, cozy place where the light are always on.

By being dynamic, creative and open to different perspectives, your listing photos can pop wonderfully and showcase your home with style.