Shawna Woodward

As a local, you know that spring in Augusta starts before the rest of the country. Along our picturesque Savannah River, we have a rich history of southern charm coupled with a warm and sunny climate, creating the perfect place for an abundance of outdoor activities that cater to nature enthusiasts of all kinds. People migrate here regularly to stay, specifically, those who are tired of the cold weather and desire a lifestyle that is focused on finding somewhere full of a diverse range of outdoor experiences. Augusta is a

Everyone needs a place to live and buying a home is a significant milestone. The financial requirements of putting down large sums of money to buy a home can be a major barrier to making this dream become a reality. I often get asked about first-time home buyer programs, and while there are not actually “first-time” home buyer programs, there are several options available for those looking to purchase a home with no down payment. Essentially, this would be any loan program that offers 100% financing. 100% financing can be

In my short lifetime, few activities have surged in popularity like pickleball. This fast-paced, easy-to-learn game has taken communities by storm. It’s become so popular, that a few of our subdivisions have added their own courts directly supporting its abundant growth. Do you know the story of how pickleball began? In the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, a picturesque location near Seattle, Washington, this sport was invented. Three fathers were searching for a way to entertain their families. They improvised, playing a game combining elements of badminton, tennis, and

When you consider making a change, you’ll go straight to the internet to begin researching options. Real estate search apps have taken first place in every aspect of the home buying, renting, and selling process. In an effort to help you make an informed decision, I’ve decided to share my realtor’s perspective on a few of the most popular options. I am going to start by emphasizing the importance of using a local realtor when you get serious. The main reason is because you need to get on your local

It’s tax time and homeownership comes with numerous perks, one of them is the potential to benefit from tax deductions. While not every expense related to buying a home is tax-deductible, there are several key items that can contribute to significant savings this tax season. Let’s explore the home-buying expenses that may qualify for tax deductions, helping you maximize the financial advantages of owning a home. 1. Mortgage Interest Arguably, the most well-known and significant deduction for homeowners is the mortgage interest deduction. Homeowners can deduct the interest paid on

One of the most common debates on what home to buy revolves around an age-old question: Is it better to buy a brand new home, or should you opt for the character of a time-tested older home? This decision can cause your head to spin and may bring stress that steals the joy associated with home ownership. So, let’s walk through the pros and cons of both, and maybe, just maybe, find the key to unlock the door of your dream home. Let’s start with the pros of buying a

Now that I have packed away all my holiday decor, it suddenly feels like the house is naked! But honestly, I LOVE it. A clutter-free home not only looks inviting, but also paves the way for easy maintenance and stress-free cleaning routines. I am certain that having a clean and decluttered home will bring a sense of peace and relaxation to your life helping keep those winter blues away. Organizing is one of my favorite things to do, but I get it, for some the thought of decluttering feels overwhelming.

So many of us hoped interest rates would drop and we could take advantage of refinancing. Refinancing your mortgage can be a savvy financial move, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in interest payments or helping you tap into the equity in your home. However, determining the right time to refinance is crucial, as market conditions, interest rates, and your personal financial situation all play significant roles. In this guide, we’ll explore key indicators to help you know when it might be the right time to consider refinancing your mortgage.

Who is buying up all the homes today?  While the market is slowly normalizing, millennials have firmly positioned themselves as the dominant force. As the largest generation in the U.S. population, these individuals born between 1981 and 1996 or 27-42-year-olds, are not only influencing trends, but also facing unique challenges in their quest for homeownership. Challenges in the current market: According to a recent Redfin report, 2023 was labeled the least affordable year on record for homebuyers, with the median monthly housing payment hitting an all-time high of $2,715, representing

Let’s be honest here. In the time period between Halloween and the New Year, everyone is running an emotional and stress-filled gauntlet. You’ll attend more family gatherings in these four months than you did in all of the months before. This entails cooking, planning, cleaning, and not to mention the mental preparation needed to withstand all of your deranged family members. Just days after Thanksgiving it is time to hang Christmas lights, replace your fall decorations (that you just put out) with Christmas decorations, and if you’re like most people,