Month: December 2021

Once you’ve found your dream home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. It’s exciting to start thinking about moving in and decorating your new place, but before you make any large purchases, move your money around, or make any major life changes, be sure to consult your lender – someone who’s qualified to explain how your financial decisions may impact your home loan.

Here’s a list of things you shouldn’t do after applying for a mortgage. They’re all important to know – or simply just good reminders – for the process.

1. Don’t Deposit Cash into Your Bank Accounts Before Speaking with Your Bank or Lender.

Lenders need to source your money, and cash isn’t easily traceable. Before you deposit any amount of cash into your accounts, discuss the proper way to document your transactions with your loan officer.

2. Don’t Make Any Large Purchases Like a New Car or Furniture for Your Home.

New debt comes with new monthly obligations. New obligations create new qualifications. People with new debt have higher debt-to-income ratios. Since higher ratios make for riskier loans, qualified borrowers may end up no longer qualifying for their mortgage.

3. Don’t Co-Sign Other Loans for Anyone.

When you co-sign, you’re obligated. With that obligation comes higher debt-to-income ratios as well. Even if you promise you won’t be the one making the payments, your lender will have to count the payments against you.

4. Don’t Change Bank Accounts.

Remember, lenders need to source and track your assets. That task is much easier when there’s consistency among your accounts. Before you transfer any money, speak with your loan officer.

5. Don’t Apply for New Credit.

It doesn’t matter whether it’s a new credit card or a new car. When you have your credit report run by organizations in multiple financial channels (mortgage, credit card, auto, etc.), your FICO® score will be impacted. Lower credit scores can determine your interest rate and possibly even your eligibility for approval.

6. Don’t Close Any Credit Accounts.

Many buyers believe having less available credit makes them less risky and more likely to be approved. This isn’t true. A major component of your score is your length and depth of credit history (as opposed to just your payment history) and your total usage of credit as a percentage of available credit. Closing accounts has a negative impact on both of those determinants of your score.

Bottom Line

Any blip in income, assets, or credit should be reviewed and executed in a way that ensures your home loan can still be approved. If your job or employment status has changed recently, share that with your lender as well. The best plan is to fully disclose and discuss your intentions with your loan officer before you do anything financial in nature.

Are you looking for a way to challenge yourself while making memories with loved ones? Whether you’re a fan of the great outdoors or you prefer to spend time inside, there’s no shortage of fun and excitement to be had in the Motor City and its surrounding areas. As you search for items to add to your bucket list, you’ll want to keep these eight epic adventures in Metro Detroit on your radar.

1. Ziplining at Treerunner Adventure Park

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, nothing does the trick like a visit to Treerunner Adventure Park in Rochester. Located within the bounds of Oakland University, this awesome spot offers guests the chance to explore upwards of 60 fun, high-flying obstacles. Whether you’re making your way along a treetop ropes course, zooming through the air on a zipline, or simply cheering on a loved one from below, you’ll have a blast.

2. Biking or hiking along the Dequindre Cut

Looking for a way to combine a bit of exercise with a classic Detroit adventure? Make your way along the Dequindre Cut, an urban trailway that is perfect for biking, walking, and jogging alike. The two-mile path is home to so much, including plenty of public art pieces, green space, benches, and neighborhood access throughout the city. When you’re done, take time to explore the many marvels of Eastern Market.

3. Giraffe Encounter at the Detroit Zoo

Are you an animal fanatic? Then you’ll undoubtedly want to visit the Detroit Zoo, which is rich with excitement for all ages. To take your visit to the next level, embrace the chance to meet, mingle with, and feed the zoo’s giraffes. The Giraffe Encounter is available on a seasonal basis and tickets are limited to 60 per feeding, but this is a worthwhile adventure that every member of the family will remember for a lifetime.

4. Snow tubing at Bowers School Farm

When the weather is chilly, there’s nothing better than heading outside for a dash of playful fun. The winter park at this charming spot Bloomfield Hills features multiple lanes and offers on-site tube rental, so all you have to do is show up and pay a small rental fee. If that weren’t enough, you can snag soothing hot cocoa and other treats from the farm’s kitchen after speeding down the snowy hillside.

5. Breaking out of Escape The Room Detroit

Whether or not you’ve ever tried an escape room, you’ll find lots to love when you visit Escape The Room in Detroit. This highly rated spot boasts an assortment of scenarios to choose from, so you can return time and time again without getting bored. As you and your friends or family members race against the clock, you’ll have the chance to put your creativity and problem-solving skills to the test.

6. Kayaking along the Detroit River

Have you ever wanted to experience our beloved Detroit River in an up-close and personal way? Detroit River Sports offers visitors the chance to do just that via their breathtaking kayak tours. These guided excursions offer a variety of routes, whether you want to explore Belle Isle or even appreciate waterfront views at sunset. By the time you head home, you’ll feel more connected to this incredible body of water.

7. Splashing away at the Heron Beach WhoaZone

When temperatures are scorching hot, many Detroiters head to nearby beaches to cool off. If you want an extra-adventurous way to beat the heat, the WhoaZone at Heron Beach is a perfect option. Situated in Holly, this floating water park brings an entirely new dimension to summertime excitement, offering everything from slides to bounce pads to unique obstacle courses. Whether you’re simply relaxing along the shoreline or making memories atop the floating park, you’ll fall in love with WhoaZone.

8. Exploring Belle Isle in all its beauty

Most Detroiters have visited Belle Isle at least once, but this island park is a true beacon for those who crave adventure. If you want to make the most of your visit, check out a few of the lesser-known attractions on Belle Isle: a stroll around the Blue Heron Lagoon, views of the historic lighthouse, or the fun-filled Belle Isle Nature Center. Of course, classic spots like Whitcomb Conservatory and the Belle Isle Aquarium are equally fantastic – and we can’t imagine a better place to make memories in the Motor City.

Have you been lucky enough to embark on any of these epic adventures in Metro Detroit during previous excursions with loved ones? Did any of your favorites make our list? We want to hear from you, so share your thoughts with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another great family adventure spot in the Motor City area by filling out our nomination form here.

Searching for even more adventure? You’ll want to read about this manmade waterfall near Detroit.

The post 8 Epic Adventures Every Detroiter Must Take Before They Die appeared first on Only In Your State.

Are you ready for an unforgettable wintertime outing here in the Great Lakes State? Whether you’re eight or 80, there’s nothing better than heading outside to appreciate the many charms of the season. While we aren’t all equipped for high-speed adventures, some of us certainly are – and one exciting toboggan run in Michigan offers guests the chance to catch some serious air. You’re in for the snow-covered time of your life!

Echo Valley Winter Sports Park is located along East H Avenue in Kalamazoo.

Whether you’re a longtime visitor or a newcomer, it’s easy to fall in love with this exciting destination. There’s truly something for everyone, from downhill tubing to a fireplace area where you can simply observe.

One of the main attractions at Echo Valley is the toboggan run, which features multiple lands that extend for a whopping quarter mile down the hillside. On a winter afternoon, there’s no better way to have a blast.

While tubing and most other winter sports are heavily weather-dependent, the toboggan runs at Echo Valley implement a unique surface called Everslide. This allows for tobogganing in various temps and conditions.

When you visit Echo Valley, you’ll pay $20 for a daily pass that allows access to both the toboggan run and the tubing area. For more frequent visitors, season-long passes are available at a rate of $50 per person.

During your toboggan adventure, you’ll reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour as you zip and zoom down the snowy hillside. If you’re not feeling brave enough to tackle the run alone, ride with a loved one in tow!

If that weren’t enough, your sled will be hauled up the hill by an overhead lift, so you’ll never have to worry about lugging a heavy toboggan back to the beginning point. Extra energy leaves extra room for fun.

When you’re ready for an absolutely spectacular seasonal excursion here in the Great Lakes State, keep Echo Valley Winter Sports Park on your itinerary. You’ll be coasting down the hillside in no time at all.

For more information about this epic toboggan run in Michigan, click here. Have you been lucky enough to make memories at Echo Valley during previous winter seasons? What were your favorite experiences? Share your thoughts with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another great place to spend time with loved ones by filling out our nomination form here.

If you’re searching for another fun place to visit, you’ll surely want to read about the largest waterfall in Michigan.

The post You’ll Reach Speeds Of Up To 60 MPH On Michigan’s Epic Toboggan Run appeared first on Only In Your State.

It’s clear that owning a home makes financial sense. But lately, the emotional side of what drives homeownership is becoming increasingly important.

No matter the living space, the feeling of a home means different things to different people. Whether it’s a familiar scent or a favorite chair, the feel-good connections to our own homes can be more important to us than the financial ones. Here are some of the reasons why.

1. Owning your home is an accomplishment worth celebrating

You’ve put in a lot of work to achieve the dream of homeownership, and whether it’s your first home or your fifth, congratulations are in order for this milestone. You’ve earned it.

2. There’s no place like home

Owning your own home offers not only safety and security but also a comfortable place where you can simply relax and unwind after a long day. Sometimes that’s just what we need to feel recharged and truly content.

3. You can find more space to meet your needs

Whether you want more room for your changing lifestyle (think: working from home, dedicated space for a hobby, or a personal gym) or you simply prefer to have a large backyard for entertaining, you can invest in a home that truly works for your evolving needs.

4. You have control over renovations, updates, and your style

Looking to try one of those decorative wall treatments you saw on Pinterest? Tired of paying an additional pet deposit for your apartment building? Maybe you want to create an entire in-home yoga studio. You can do all of these things in your own home.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a repeat buyer who’s ready to start a new chapter in your life, now is a great time to reflect on the non-financial factors that turn a house into a happy home.

Wintertime is undeniably busy here in the Great Lakes State, as calendars fill up with everything from family gatherings to shopping outings to holiday light displays. With so many activities to choose from, it can be challenging to narrow down options – but we’re here to help you make your seasonal itinerary. As you plan for the coming months, there’s one winter festival in Michigan that deserves a spot on your calendar.

The annual Tecumseh Ice Sculpture Festival takes place the second weekend of January in – yes, you guessed it – downtown Tecumseh. This fun-filled gathering is full of excitement for the entire family.

Since 2009, this wonderful event has brought creativity and enchantment to the streets of Tecumseh. If you’ve never checked out this small and charming town, the festival offers a perfect opportunity.

As its name suggests, the Ice Sculpture Festival draws in highly talented carvers to showcase their skills. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to marvel at more than 35 inventive, festive ice sculptures.

From holiday-inspired carvings to wildlife scenes and everything in between, there’s sure to be a sculpture on display that captures your imagination. Bring along your camera to snap photos of sculptors in action.

And as if the ice sculptures weren’t enough, the festival also features an assortment of balloon sculptures that add a dash of color to the wintertime gathering. You might just feel like you’ve stepped into a playful wonderland.

For those who appreciate interactive elements, the Ice Sculpture Festival in Tecumseh also offers a unique scavenger hunt that leads participants to several local businesses. Talk about a fun family adventure.

Between admiring sculptures, take time to enjoy the welcoming small town atmosphere that makes Tecumseh so delightful. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’ll seamlessly feel at home here.

When you’re ready for an all-ages outing that captures the spirit of the winter season here in Michigan, keep Tecumseh’s Ice Sculpture Festival on your list. This is one gathering that’s worth bundling up for.

For additional information about this year’s festivities, click here. Have you been lucky enough to check out this or another winter festival in Michigan during previous years? Share your favorites with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend your favorite seasonal gathering by filling out our nomination form here.

Looking for another way to appreciate the cold weather? You’ll want to read about these cozy winter towns in Michigan.

The post The Annual Winter Festival In Michigan Every Michigander Should Bundle Up For At Least Once appeared first on Only In Your State.

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable wintertime adventure with the entire family in tow? You don’t have to tackle any extreme cold-weather sports to have a complete blast when temperatures drop here in the Great Lakes State. In fact, there’s one snow tubing park in Michigan that promises fun for all ages, whether you’re zooming down the hillside or simply observing. Get ready to have a total blast.

Cannonsburg Ski Area is located off Cannonsburg Road NE in the town of Belmont.

As you might have inferred from its name, this park is largely known for its downhill skiing options during the winter months. It also offers a zipline, scenic trails, and a variety of special events throughout the year.

While skiing can certainly be a blast, it’s not for everyone – but Cannonsburg has the perfect solution. This exciting spot is also home to a snow tubing hill that will keep the entire family happy and active.

With six spectacular lanes, the snow tubing section here is certainly sizable and bustling. You’ll want to make advance reservations for a two-hour tubing block by checking out the Cannonsburg website.

Upon arriving, bundle up and snag your snow tube before heading up for your first run down the hillside. While younger visitors are welcome, guests must be 42 inches tall and ride their tube individually.

After your first thrilling jaunt down the hill, you don’t have to worry about exhausting yourself as you trudge back up with a tube in hand. Cannonsburg offers a unique “magic carpet” that will help you make the trip.

When you’re ready to take a break, warm up at the snack bar or settle in for a meal at the on-site Cedar Lodge Restaurant. You’ll be counting down the minutes to your next tube ride in no time at all.

As you add outings and adventures to your winter itinerary, be sure to leave room for a family excursion to Cannonsburg and its awesome tubing hill. Six lanes of wonderment and fun await when you visit.

For additional information about Cannonsburg and its many offerings, click here. Have you and your loved ones taken a journey down the hillside at Cannonsburg during previous tubing or skiing adventures? Let us know in the Facebook comments or recommend another great snow tubing park in Michigan by filling out our official nomination form here.

Looking for a more low-key way to appreciate the winter season? Be sure to read about this cozy bed and breakfast in Michigan.

The post With 6 Lanes, One Of Michigan’s Largest Snow Tubing Parks Offers Plenty Of Space For Everyone appeared first on Only In Your State.

If you’re thinking of buying a home, you’re probably wondering what you need to save for your down payment. Is it 20% of the purchase price, or could you put down less? While there are lower down payment programs available that allow qualified buyers to put down as little as 3.5%, it’s important to understand the many perks that come with a 20% down payment.

Here are four reasons why putting 20% down may be a great option if it works within your budget.

1. Your Interest Rate May Be Lower

A 20% down payment vs. a 3-5% down payment shows your lender you’re more financially stable and not a large credit risk. The more confident your lender is in your credit score and your ability to pay your loan, the lower the mortgage interest rate they’ll likely be willing to give you.

2. You’ll End Up Paying Less for Your Home

The larger your down payment, the smaller your loan amount will be for your mortgage. If you’re able to pay 20% of the cost of your new home at the start of the transaction, you’ll only pay interest on the remaining 80%. If you put down 5%, the additional 15% will be added to your loan and will accrue interest over time. This will end up costing you more over the lifetime of your home loan.

3. Your Offer Will Stand Out in a Competitive Market

In a market where many buyers are competing for the same home, sellers often like to see offers come in with 20% or larger down payments. The seller gains the same confidence as the lender in this scenario. You are seen as a stronger buyer with financing that’s more likely to be approved. Therefore, the deal will be more likely to go through.

4. You Won’t Have To Pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

What is PMI? According to Freddie Mac:

“For homeowners who put less than 20% down, Private Mortgage Insurance or PMI is an added insurance policy for homeowners that protects the lender if you are unable to pay your mortgage.

It is not the same thing as homeowner’s insurance. It’s a monthly fee, rolled into your mortgage payment, that’s required if you make a down payment less than 20%. . . . Once you’ve built equity of 20% in your home, you can cancel your PMI and remove that expense from your monthly payment.”

As mentioned earlier, if you put down less than 20% when buying a home, your lender will see your loan as having more risk. PMI helps them recover their investment in you if you’re unable to pay your loan. This insurance isn’t required if you’re able to put down 20% or more.

Many times, home sellers looking to move up to a larger or more expensive home are able to take the equity they earn from the sale of their house to put 20% down on their next home. With the equity homeowners have today, it creates a great opportunity to put those savings toward a larger down payment on a new home.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking to buy a home, consider the benefits of 20% down versus a smaller down payment option. Let’s connect so you have expert advice to help make your homeownership goals a reality.

Are you looking for a natural wonderland here in the Great Lakes State? Whether you’re a casual outdoor adventurer or a serious lover of all things nature-centric, there’s one incredible destination here in the Great Lakes State that belongs on your bucket list. Get ready to be utterly enchanted as you make lasting memories at this magical dark sky park in Michigan.

Dr. T.K. Lawless International Dark Sky Park is located off Monkey Run Street in Vandalia, Michigan.

While you might be familiar with the Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City, this underrated gem is just as special. When you arrive, you’ll find a whopping 820 acres of land to explore.

During the daylight hours, there’s so much to appreciate at T.K. Lawless Park. Whether you’re visiting in the midst of summertime or stopping by when there’s snow on the ground, you’ll find fun for the whole family.

Check out seven miles of cross-country skiing and hiking trails, try your hand at fishing, set up a relaxing picnic lunch with loved ones, or do a bit of snow tubing when weather permits. What’s not to appreciate?

Of course, this spot’s “dark sky” element is a major part of its appeal. While it isn’t open for nighttime access on a daily basis, the park offers a variety of stargazing nights throughout the year – find a calendar here.

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To qualify via the International Dark-Sky Association, the park had to install special LED lighting throughout and prove that its light readings met official standards. The views you’ll find here are magnificent.

During stargazing nights at T.K. Lawless, you’ll pay just $2 per car to enter. Depending on the night, the park remains open until midnight or 2 a.m. to accommodate peak viewing during these brilliant cosmic events.

Whether you’re visiting during the daylight hours to appreciate a bit of outdoor recreation or planning a family outing during Michigan’s next meteor shower, this underrated locale will easily capture your heart.

Have you and your family been lucky enough to explore this spectacular dark sky park in Michigan? Share your favorite stargazing or hiking memories with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another outdoor attraction in the Great Lakes State by filling out our official nomination form here.

If you’re seeking even more outdoor exploration, be sure to read about this secluded nature preserve in Michigan.

The post This 820-Acre Space In Michigan Is One Of America’s Most Incredible Dark Sky Parks appeared first on Only In Your State.

Are you ready to unwind and warm up in some of the coziest towns in Michigan? The arrival of chilly temperatures here in the Great Lakes State always leaves us longing for comforting surroundings, whether we’re exploring a favorite locale or visiting somewhere completely new. As you make your winter plans, be sure to keep these seven spectacular and soothing towns on your must-visit list.

1. Saugatuck

Situated just a stone’s throw from Lake Michigan, this tiny community is decidedly cozy and welcoming in every season — but there’s something special about dropping by in the wintertime. You won’t have to contend with crowds of summer tourists, but you’ll still be able to appreciate charming attractions like art galleries, coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, and easy access to the frozen lakeshore. What’s not to love?

2. Chelsea

This quaint town in Washtenaw County is chock full of seasonal events and attractions, whether you’re cozying up for a romantic stay at the Chelsea House Victorian Inn or simply strolling through downtown on a snowy evening. If that weren’t enough, Chelsea is a popular destination for live theatrical and musical performances, so you’ll certainly find something to warm your heart when you visit.

3. Suttons Bay

If you’re a fan of truly small communities, the village of Suttons Bay belongs on your Michigan bucket list. During the winter months, this serene shoreline town on an inlet of Lake Michigan will give you the peace and quiet you’ve been craving. Spend the night at the Vineyard Inn or make your way to Black Star Farms, where you can sip wine and book an overnight adventure. Talk about a marvelous escape.

4. Mackinac Island

While access to Mackinac Island can be challenging during the winter months, as ferries only run when weather permits and most of us aren’t able to access small planes, we firmly believe that every Michigander should try to experience the island during wintertime at least once. When snow falls, there’s a true sense of magic around every bend in this car-free wonderland. Stock up on delicious fudge or gaze out at the icy Straits of Mackinac as you sip your morning coffee. What’s not to love?

5. Charlevoix

It’s almost impossible to deny the delights of Charlevoix, a waterfront town that impresses both locals and visitors alike all throughout the year. For those who like spending wintertime appreciating the outdoors, this lovely spot offers easy access to winter sporting destinations like Mt. McSauba, Boyne Mountain, and Shanty Creek. Of course, if you’re more of a homebody, you can simply spend your time curled up with a hot cup of tea and a good book at the Charlevoix House or Bridge Street Inn.

6. Ironwood

If you find yourself in the Upper Peninsula when temperatures have dropped, venture to Ironwood for a charming and authentic small town experience. Situated approximately 18 miles from the shores of icy Lake Superior, the town provides a quiet and calm place to get away from your day-to-day stresses. Take a walk through its small-but-charming downtown area, venture to nearby Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort for some skiing, or catch a show at the historic Ironwood Theatre. You’ll make lasting memories here.

7. Frankenmuth

We couldn’t round out a list of top winter towns in Michigan without including Frankenmuth, which remains a favorite among Michiganders of all ages. With its Bavarian architecture, tasty dining options, year-round holiday atmosphere, and ample lodging options, Frankenmuth delivers a sense of coziness that’s almost impossible not to appreciate. Whether you’re attending the annual Snowfest or spending the night at Frankenmuth Country Bed & Breakfast, you’ll be enamored in no time.

Have you been lucky enough to experience any of the coziest towns in Michigan during previous family adventures? Are there others that should have been included on our list? We’re happy to hear from our readers, so drop us a line in the Facebook comments or recommend another must-visit destination in the Great Lakes State by completing our nomination form here.

If you’re looking for even more charm here in our state, read our article about the best small town downtowns in Michigan.

The post The 7 Coziest Towns In Michigan To Snuggle Up In This Season appeared first on Only In Your State.