Real Estate Blog

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. With fluctuating interest rates and rising home prices, many buyers are looking for creative ways to make their mortgages more affordable. One option that's gaining traction is the mortgage rate buydown. But what exactly is a buydown, and how can it benefit you as a homebuyer?

What Is a Mortgage Rate Buydown?

A mortgage rate buydown is a financing arrangement that allows borrowers—or sometimes sellers or builders on behalf of the buyer—to pay an upfront fee to reduce the interest rate on a mortgage for a period of time or for the entire loan term. This lower rate translates to lower monthly mortgage payments.

Buydowns typically come in two main forms:

• …

For those who love fresh, local produce and supporting regional farmers, the Chattanooga area offers a variety of farmers markets to explore. Whether you're a Chattanooga resident or visiting the surrounding areas, there's no shortage of opportunities to shop for seasonal fruits, vegetables, homemade goods, and more. Here's a guide to some of the top farmers markets in and around Chattanooga and Upper GA.

1. Main Street Farmers Market

• When: Wednesdays, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Where: Corner of W. 20th St & Chestnut St 

Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, the Main Street Farmers Market is a bustling weekly event for both locals and visitors. Open on Wednesdays from 4 PM to 6 PM, it's the perfect stop to grab fresh produce, handmade…

Selling a home can be an exciting yet stressful experience. While preparing to list your property, it’s easy to get caught up in the many tasks at hand. However, knowing what not to do during the process is just as important as knowing what steps to take. Making certain missteps can cause delays, reduce your home’s value, or even prevent a sale altogether. To help ensure a smooth and successful transaction, here are some common mistakes sellers should avoid when selling their home.

1. Failing to Work with a Professional Real Estate Agent

Some sellers attempt to go the "For Sale by Owner" route to save on commission fees, but this can often backfire. Real estate agents are skilled negotiators with extensive market knowledge and experience in…

Sometimes you feel the need to get away and explore somewhere new. Other times, it's all about keeping it local and breaking up the normal routine. Dubbed a "staycation", here’s are some ways to enjoy a fantastic mini respite without leaving Chattanooga.

Outdoor Escapades

Chattanooga is often dubbed the “Scenic City” for a reason. Believe it or not, there are many who live in our gorgeous Chatt and have never visited well-known outdoor attractions. It's time to change that! Explore the famous Rock City Gardens, where winding paths lead you through lush gardens with stunning views of the surrounding valley. For an affordable experience, visit Point Park, where you can take in panoramic views of the city and enjoy a peaceful stroll through Civil…

Purchasing a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and it's easy to get swept up in the excitement of finding your dream property. However, it’s crucial to make sure that the house you’re about to buy doesn’t come with hidden issues that could cost you thousands of dollars down the line. This is where hiring a professional home inspector becomes invaluable.

While a property may look perfect on the surface, it could have underlying problems that are not immediately obvious to an untrained eye. A professional home inspector has the expertise to identify issues that could go unnoticed during a casual walk-through. These issues could include structural defects, plumbing problems, mold, or issues with the roof or electrical…

February 13th isn’t just another day on the calendar; it’s Galentine’s Day! Originating from the hit TV show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day has become a much-needed occasion for ladies to celebrate friendships. If you find yourself in Chattanooga this year, here are some fantastic ways to make the most of this special night out with your gal pals.

Start your evening on a delicious note by exploring Chattanooga’s vibrant culinary scene. If it's brunch you seek, places like the Bluegrass Grill or Milk & Honey offer cozy atmospheres perfect for catching up over pancakes or avocado toast. Don't forget to toast with mimosas or a refreshing coffee to kick off your celebration. For night owls, head to the trendy West Village area for chic eateries…

Decorating your home for the first time can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to personalize your space and make it feel truly yours. Whether you’ve just moved into a new home or are looking to refresh your current one, these basic tips will help you get started and create a space that reflects your style.

Start with a Plan
Before you start shopping or rearranging furniture, take some time to plan. Decide on a theme or style that resonates with you—whether it’s modern, farmhouse, boho, or eclectic. Pinterest and Instagram can be great sources of inspiration. Create a mood board or save photos of rooms you love to help you visualize your ideal space.

Choose a Color Palette
A cohesive color palette is key to creating a…

Chattanooga is a city brimming with affordable activities and attractions perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, you can enjoy the best of Chattanooga without breaking the bank. Here's how to make the most of your visit on a $100 or less budget:

Saturday Morning: Outdoor Adventures ($0-$5 per person)

Start your day with a visit to Coolidge Park in the North Shore district. Stroll along Tennessee Riverwalk or hop on the historic carousel ($2 per ride). The park's open spaces and public art make it an ideal spot for a picnic or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

Saturday Afternoon: Affordable Eats and Indoor Fun ($30-$35 per person)

For lunch head to Champy's Famous Fried Chicken on MLK…

As temperatures drop and winter approaches, readying your home and property for the colder months is essential. Winterizing ensures your house remains safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient while also protecting it from damage. Here are key items to check off your list:

1. Inspect and Seal Gaps
Drafts can significantly increase heating costs, so make sure to inspect windows, doors, and other openings for gaps and cracks. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal the areas, preventing the cold air from sneaking in and warm air from making an escape. Don't forget to check for drafts around electrical outlets and light fixtures on exterior walls.

2. Service Your HVAC System
A well-maintained heating system is critical during the winter months. Schedule…

The Choo Choo's nostalgia with restaurants inside,
Walkable Northshore, Coolidge Carousel rides,
Outdoor adventures in fall, summer, and spring,
These are a few of our favorite things.

The Tennessee aquarium with penguins galore,
Hamilton Place shopping, an abundance of stores,
Festivals and concerts with artists who sing,
These are a few of our favorite things.

When we travel,
Getting homesick,
And we're feeling sad...
We simply remember the city we love,
And then we don't feel so bad.

Watching the Lookouts and Red Wolves play games,
A 16-mile Riverwalk and ample bike lanes,
Distilleries, art, battlefields; rich history they bring,
These are a few of our favorite things.

Surrounding mountains boast breath-taking views,
Enjoying the sights from a riverboat…