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Minimalism has been having a moment for some time now. As trends evolve and tastes change, however, were seeing a slight twist being put on the less-is-more movement. The result is warm minimalism.

For those who enjoy the lack of clutter but find minimalism to be too sparse, this might be your new favorite look in interior design. Focused on achieving a living space that strikes a balance between simple and cozy, here are a few tips to bring the look into your home!

Bare necessities

Like the form it emerged from, warm minimalism is all about stripping down to the essentials and eliminating chaos. This doesnt just mean doing away with the trinkets and knick knacks, but cutting down on eclectic patterns and intricate color schemes in order to create an environment that exudes a sense of harmony.

Sleek but Warm

The key is to pick out dcor with warm textures and sleek lines so that your home still feels inviting. After all, the last thing you want is for it to look like an empty house you just moved into. Organic materials like wood and stone work well and, rather than having sterile white walls, try a light cream color. Cozy, neutral tone furniture, especially leather, will fit into the mix and complement the base textures.

Curated Objects

This is where you can infuse a bit of personality, but be careful because it can also make or break the entire aesthetic. A few thoughtfully curated objects, like antiques or handmade crafts, that can stand on their own without overpowering the room are ideal. If youre only using a few small pieces to fill a large area, its okay for them to be a bit more intricate, like an ornate mirror or piece of artwork. Ceramic pottery with a visually appealing houseplant or tree is another great way to fill the space without introducing clutter.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

If you’re shopping for a home loan, you’re likely focusing on interest rates. Below are a handful of questions you may have about the art of the interest rate.

How are interest rates determined?
Interest rates are influenced by shifting economic indicators in your financial market. This type of fluidity means they can change daily, or even hourly. This is why it’s important to shop around.

What does it mean to “lock in” a rate?
Since interest rates are so fluid, many buyers choose to combat this by locking in a rate when they find a good one. A locked rate is a contractual agreement between the lender and buyer that offers the buyer protection from financial market fluctuations that could affect the range of the interest rate. There are four major components to a rate lock: loan program; interest rate; points; and the length of the lock. If your interest rate range is locked and there are no subsequent changes to your loan, the interest rate range on your application generally remains the same; however, if changes are made to your loan, your final interest rate at closing may be different.

What does it mean if your rate is “floating?”
If your interest rate is floating, it means it’s not locked. Instead, it’s fluctuating with the up-and-down movements of the market. The benefit of this is if interest rates decrease, you will have the option of locking in at a lower rate, but if the rates rise, you will lose access to the lower rates.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Here are a few key characteristics that are often found in a stylish, contemporary kitchen.

Matte Finishes

The smooth, flat texture absorbs light and is better at hiding smudges than other common alternatives.

Monochromatic Color Scheme

For a sophisticated ambiance, all-black or all-white are both popular.

Sleek Lighting

Lights add a stunning design element while properly illuminating your kitchen.

Concealed Appliances

Customizing the panels on your refrigerator and dishwasher to match the cabinetry lends a modern and integrated look.

Striking Countertops

Marble, wood or stainless steel countertops are popular statement pieces.

Clean Lines

Sharp vertical and horizontal angles will contribute to an aesthetic thats effortlessly minimalist.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

A mortgage is likely the largest debt you will ever have to repay. The idea of having a mortgage hanging over your head for up to 30 years can feel daunting. With some sacrifices and discipline, you might be able to pay off your loan years ahead of schedule.

Make Extra Payments
Some mortgage lenders allow borrowers to make extra payments to repay their loans earlier. Some financial institutions accept additional payments at any time, while some dont accept extra payments at all, only accept them at specific times or charge penalties. Check with your lender.

If your financial institution will allow you to make extra payments, you could erase years from your repayment period. You can make an extra payment if you have additional funds from a bonus or the sale of property. If you mail an extra payment, include a note asking the company to apply it to the principal, not to the next months regular payment.

Another option is to make half of your regular payment every two weeks. That will result in 26 half payments, or 13 total payments, at the end of the year. Making one extra payment every year could help you pay off your mortgage several years ahead of schedule.

Find Extra Money in Your Budget
Making simple changes to your habits could help you save money to put toward your mortgage. For example, taking your lunch to work and making coffee at home instead of eating out and buying coffee on your way to work could help you save quite a bit of money over the course of a year.

Consider Refinancing or Downsizing
Refinancing your mortgage could help you pay it off sooner. Switching to a loan with a shorter term could lower your interest rate, which could save you thousands of dollars over the remainder of the repayment period.

If you are struggling to pay your mortgage, you might want to consider downsizing. If your kids have moved out, it doesnt make sense to make expensive mortgage payments for a house with empty bedrooms. Moving to a smaller home could save you a lot of money. You might even earn enough from the sale of your house to pay cash for a new, smaller one, thereby completely eliminating a mortgage.

Dont Get in Over Your Head
The best way to avoid being overwhelmed by a mortgage is to make careful decisions before you buy a house. Build an emergency fund to cover several months expenses. Pay off debt and save enough to make a significant down payment. Limit your mortgage payments to a relatively low percentage of your monthly income. If possible, opt for a mortgage with a shorter term to save money in the long run.

Work to Pay off Your Mortgage Early
The satisfaction of paying off a mortgage can be liberating. By making some changes to your lifestyle and setting small but reasonable goals, you may be able to repay your debt years ahead of schedule.

Published with permission from RISMedia.