(RE/MAX Blog)-If you have a large backyard and are looking into investing in a fence, there are numerous factors to take into consideration. Here are six tips to help you get started.

1. Do your Research

Check with your Homeowners Association or neighborhood organizations for specific regulations, such as fence height, materials and colors. Also check with your local municipality and utility company about buried cables and lines or required easements.

2. Consult Professionals

Fencing may impact your home’s appeal. Talk to a real estate agent or an appraise familiar with your local market to help choose materials and where to place your fence.

3. Chat with neighbors

Consider informing your next door neighbors about how you are thinking about getting a fence. Getting them on-board and in agreement about property lines before being the project, will avoid future disputes.

4. Match your house

Choose a fence that architecturally matches the style of your house for curb side appeal.

5. Understand Maintenance

Be aware of the required upkeep. For instance, some wooden fences will need frequent sealing and staining.

6. Consider living fences

Adding landscaping can increase the value of your home. Strategically placed shrubs and trees can develop into beautiful fences that also act as attractive landscaping.

You’ve found your dream home. You’ve been pre-approved, the seller has accepted your offer, the inspection went great and your closing date is set. However, remember the deal is not done yet and your lender can change their mind. Here are five things to avoid in order to keep your loan from being turned down.

1. Don’t mess with your income-to-debt ratio

Everything seems to be coming together and you couldn’t be more excited. Therefore, you want to start purchasing big ticket items to decorate the interior of your soon-to-be new home. Bad idea! The ratio of your monthly income to your monthly debts is a main factor the lender considered when qualifying you. And your lender will probably run your finances a few more times before closing. Therefore, don’t take out a loan, sign any car leases or make any big purchases. This could result in you losing the loan for your new home.

2. Don’t disappear

Keep in touch with your lender and be available to answer any last-minute concerns.

3. Keep your loan officer informed

Don’t make a large deposit or open a new bank account without checking with your loan officer first. A large deposit can lead to a lot of questions, such as where the money came from. Inform your Loan Officer of any financial changes, such as money transfers.

4. Don’t change jobs, become self-employed or quit your job

Most lenders prefer home buyers to have a two-year job history. Making a big career move can slow the home buying process down or even result in you losing the deal.

5. Don’t open a new credit card, use credit cards excessively or let your accounts fall behind

Engaging in behavior that could negatively impact your credit score could slow down the home buying process or result in you losing the loan.

If you would like to learn more about the home buying process, contact one of our experience agents here.