Author Image: Ellen James Martin

Ellen James Martin

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Smart Moves: Tips to avoid being house-poor

Demand for first-time homeownership is surging as many late-blooming millennials are finally seeking to settle down. But in some ways, their timing couldn't be worse. That's because entry-level homes are...
Interior of the common area at 444 Social in Lincolnshire, Ill.

5 tips for hiring a contractor

In the aftermath of the recession, the home improvement industry has roared back. That's decreased the availability of skilled contractors, including plumbers, electricians and carpenters, among others. "Right now, it's...
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Next stop, starter home

A couple of years ago, housing market analysts predicted that when millennials bought their first home, most would opt for a city place over the sort of suburban house preferred...
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Picking area with strong rebound potential

After his divorce, the 45-year-old recreation center manager struggled to move from the cramped apartment he'd been renting to a more spacious house in a desirable suburban community. But his...
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In tough times, flexibility with buyers is key

In a tough economy, conspicuous consumption is out and deal-hunting is in. Whether they're buying a Toyota Corolla or a Lexus, consumers are demanding rock-bottom prices. This is especially true...
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Keeping the upper hand in housing deal

In some ways, it's both the best of times and the most challenging of times for home buyers. Many properties are on the market for amazingly low prices, like the...
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‘Staging’ home like a pro

Nowadays, few home sellers –– and especially those trying to avert foreclosure –– have spare funds to hire a "stager," a professional trained in the art of making a property...