James White's (jamwhite) Blog

You don't have to take a traditional approach to real estate if it doesn't appeal to you. Some investors pursue alternatives that are less common but still profitable. As you review your options, you might find these alternatives are more attractive than the standard strategies you're accustomed ...

Homeowners are often hesitant to hire professionals for their landscaping. They already have the tools they need to tend to their lawn, such as shovels, shears, trowels and other equipment, so why should they contact a service? What value is there in seeking outside help when starting a new proje...

Are you torn between buying a traditional home or a modular construction? Modular building materials and the production of manufactured homes decrease construction waste and create more sustainable projects for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.The United States generates more than 5...

The Midwest has a special charm you can't find elsewhere. If you're interested in music and culture, you'll find incredible festivals like Chicago's Lollapalooza and Pitchfork, not to mention Milwaukee's Summerfest. Beer enthusiasts will enjoy over 100 top-rated breweries, and foodies can have wo...

A substantial sum of money goes into a new kitchen, and rushing your renovations isn't smart. You need to do your homework before working on a home, researching what you should and shouldn't do moving forward, as there's a right way and wrong way to remodel. In other words, it's a significant inv...

You want every home to look its best. But your budget won't always allow for "best." You have to weigh the cost and benefits of a feature before you move forward with implementation, and compromise is sometimes necessary to complete a given project within the parameters you've set. That said, can...

When you’re a homeowner, there are many projects you eventually find yourself taking on that you never thought you would have to. There might a be a major storm that rolls through and forces you to learn how to patch your roof, or you may have to learn how to use a power washer so you can clean t...

Do you gaze out of windows and dream of moving to a far-away locale? Or are you rooted in your hometown and never want to leave?Either way — or at any point in between — you should take a good hard look at your lease for the New Year.Is Your Rent Too High? Cost MattersWhy? Because too many millen...

Do you have an older building that's just not attracting any buyers? You've shown it, but it never grabs anyone's attention, let alone captures their hearts.Well, especially in winter, it might pay to discuss weatherproofing with the sellers.The Potential Concerns of Prospective BuyersOlder homes...

If you’re approached by first-time homeowners interested in purchasing a short-sale home, how should you respond? If you know of short-sale listings, should you recommend them to first-time homebuyers?The answers to both these questions depend on the circumstances, both of the homeowners and of t...