With the warm, summer air right around the corner, homeowners have begun cleaning up their yards with hopes of inviting friends and family over for cookouts. Their deck or patio becomes their most popular asset when it comes to enjoying the outdoors.

The spring season is one of the best times of the year to make home improvements. The warm air and blooming flowers make it easier to complete outdoor projects on your radar. Even small, DIY improvements can bring a significant return on investment.

It seems like it’s been in the news constantly over the past few months: the Federal Reserve raises interest rates. But how does that impact you and your finances on a daily basis? It depends on your situation, but there can be both good news and challenges in the months ahead.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you need to be ready to accept the responsibilities and the mindset of thinking like a homeowner. But there are also some very practical financial issues that you need to consider before beginning the home buying process.