It is said that hindsight is 2020, yet we feel confident that with these resolutions you can walk into the New Year with 2020 vision in the foresight. Happy 2020! 
Resolution 1: Pay Down Principal if it Makes Sense
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is expensive over the life of one’s loan. Therefore, paying down principal enough to either refinance your way out of PMI or where the bank can effectively cancel it for you will make your monthly payment significantly smaller, saving you several thousand’s over time.
Resolution 2: Don’t Neglect Minor Repairs
Minor repairs should be taken care of immediately to save big costs down the road. Addressing those repairs while they are still manageable, making it possible to do the work yourself will save you time, energy and money in the future.
Resolution 3: Start an Emergency Fund
You will be surprised the extra cash you’ll be able to accumulate by just putting a small amount away each paycheck. The key is to be consistent about it, and track your progress. Looking into an online savings account or shopping for the best interest rates on your savings account will add to your funds.
Resolution 4: Declutter Your Home
Some of the benefits of decluttering your home are obvious and immediate. The top contenders are saving time, avoiding the stress of hunting for misplaced items, saving money by not purchasing duplicates of items, and overall physical and mental health. Lastly, if you donate your unwanted items you are not only being environmentally conscious but also giving back.
Resolution 5: Assess the Value of Your Home
Be sure to contact your real estate agent for an up to date market analysis. Over the last year, average home prices have increased over 5% in the Lane Country Market, even more in many areas. With inventory remaining historically low, buyers are placing a premium on location and move in ready properties. Let an expert share with you what your property is worth, and unleash your new found equity in this sellers’ market.