Increasing your home’s energy efficiency offers a lot of benefits: lower energy bills, lower environmental impact, and even increased home value. This Earth Day consider some of these energy-saving tips for your home that will save you money and reduce your environmental footprint.
Replace Your Light Bulbs
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average household spends about 5% of its energy budget on lighting. If you haven’t switched to CFL or LED light bulbs yet, now is the time to do it. These bulbs use 75-80% less energy than incandescent light bulbs. Energy-efficient light bulbs will pay for themselves over time, and you won’t have to sacrifice brightness or light quality.
Clean (or Replace) Your Air Conditioner
Homeowners in the U.S. spend about $11 billion every year on home cooling. By switching to a high efficiency air conditioner, you can cut your air conditioning energy use by 20-50%! If a new air conditioner isn’t in the budget this year, make sure to properly maintain your current one. Check your air filters once a month and replace them as needed. If you have central air conditioning, remember to inspect your ductwork and make sure it’s properly sealed and connected. Click here for more energy-saving air conditioning tips.
Use Appliances Efficiently
Appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, and washing machines make up about 13% of your energy costs. Check your refrigerator’s temperatures. The recommended temperature for your refrigerator is around 35°-38° F. The recommended temperature for your freezer is 0° F. Also, washing your clothes in cold water can save on water heating costs. Make sure your dishwasher and washing machine are full before you turn them on, to avoid wasting water. Click here for more tips on using your household appliances efficiently.
Reducing your home’s energy use will help you save money on your heating, water, and electricity bills. It can also help you get more money for your house when it’s time to sell. Homes with energy efficient features have resale values about 9% higher than similar homes without these features. If you’re interested in moving or refinancing soon, talk to one of our licensed Loan Originators today to get started.
LINTHICUM, MD, April 15, 2015 — NFM Lending is proud to have sponsored and participated in the annual Red Shoe Shuffle for the fourth consecutive year on Sunday, April 12, 2015. The Red Shoe Shuffle is a 5K race around downtown Baltimore to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore (RMHCB).
In addition to sponsoring the event, a group of NFM Lending staff members and their families participated in the event, either as “Shufflers,” or as volunteers. Bernadette Pearson, HR Director, was a volunteer at the event. Pearson has been involved with the Red Shoe Crew since 2011, and has been part of the Shuffle since the first event in 2012.
“The Ronald McDonald House of Baltimore holds a special place for many of NFM’s employees,” said Pearson. “We are honored that we are able to be part of this fun and meaningful event, and to support such an amazing organization.”
Race participants wore red and white striped socks, similar to Ronald McDonald’s, as well as red necklaces, tutus, wigs, and other accessories to show their spirit. Race volunteers and families stationed throughout the race held signs of encouragement, and cheered on Shufflers. Often, children who have stayed or are currently staying at the Ronald McDonald House with their families attend the race. Families travel from all over the U.S. to participate in the Shuffle. Children, young adults, and parents who have participated in past Red Shoe Shuffles shared their triumphant finish line stories on the Red Shoe Shuffle website.
The race began in front of the Ronald McDonald House at 635 West Lexington Street in Baltimore. The 3.1 mile trail took Shuffle participants throughout the city, including through the Inner Harbor. At the finish line, sponsors set up booths with giveaways and activities for runners. In total, the event had 2,500 participants, over 200 volunteers, and raised a total of $345,000.
NFM Lending is proud to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore, and is thankful to have had the opportunity to be a part of this extraordinary event.
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending (formerly NFM, Inc.) is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 29 states across the United States. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to their customers and their community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.”
About the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore
The Ronald McDonald House Charities is an international nonprofit that provide housing to families of seriously ill children while they undergo hospital treatment. The Baltimore chapter is located near many of the area’s hospitals, including Johns Hopkins, the Kennedy Krieger Institute, and more. The Baltimore chapter has housed over 35,000 families since it opened its doors in 1982.
Click here to view original press release.
Now that tax season is over, you may be wondering what to do with your tax return. A great way to put your tax return to good use is to invest in home renovations that you may have been putting off. Here are several ways you can get the most out of your tax return and home renovation projects.
Preventative Maintenance
If your house has any safety hazards, address these first. Check your home for anything that could lead to a falling accident, such as broken handrails or cracked walkways. Test your electrical outlets, check your gutters and downspouts, and look for any wear and tear on your water pipes in the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. If you haven’t inspected your roof recently, consider having an inspection done. It costs a few hundred dollars, and can save you thousands in repairs later on.
Renovations under $500
If you’re looking to keep your expenses under $500, consider some of these inexpensive home renovations.
Renovations under $1,000
If you have a $1,000 budget, try these home renovations.
Renovations under $2,500
If you’re looking for a more dramatic change, check out some of these renovations under $2,500.
Spring isn’t just a great time for spring cleaning, but a great time to update and renovate your house. This is especially a good idea if you’re planning to put your house on the market soon. If you’re looking to move or refinance your current home, talk to one of our licensed loan originators today to get started.
LINTHICUM, MD., April 13, 2015 — NFM Lending is pleased to announce they are now licensed to lend in the state of Wisconsin. After recent approval by the State of Wisconsin, the residential mortgage lending company is currently licensed in 29 states across the country.
“Wisconsin has some of the hardest working people in the United States,” said Gregory Sher, Vice President Business Development. “The Badger State also boasts breathtaking scenery. We look forward to serving the people of Wisconsin by marrying our largest commonality: dependability and hard work.”
NFM Lending started as a small brokerage shop with 4 loan officers, and is now a multi-state lender with more than 300 employees and 41 operating branches. NFM Lending has been listed as one of the “Top 100 Mortgage Companies in America” and one of “The 50 Best Companies to Work for in America 2013” by Mortgage Executive Magazine. It was also ranked a “Top Mortgage Lender” by the Scotsman Guide in 2013, named a “Top Work Place in Baltimore” by The Baltimore Sun three years in a row, and has received many other awards and recognitions.
“We are excited to expand NFM Lending’s Midwest presence in the State of Wisconsin,” said Jason Ponsonby, Director of Sales. “NFM Lending’s sales-driven culture and high level of service combined with expansive product options brings additional opportunities for homeownership in the Midwest.”
NFM Lending looks forward to continued growth and expansion in the coming year.
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending (formerly NFM, Inc.) is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 29 states in the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Lender.”
View the full press release here.
NFM will be ready for August 1st
On August 1, 2015, the mortgage industry will introduce two new loan disclosures. The Loan Estimate and the Closing Disclosure will be utilized on most applications taken after the effective date. These changes will be implemented by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) under the CFPB’s rule making authority pursuant to the Dodd Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
Good Bye to the 2010 Disclosures
The Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and the Truth in Lending (TIL) disclosures will now be combined into the Loan Estimate for most transactions. Certain loans such as HELOC’s and reverse mortgage will still utilize the current disclosures. In addition the Closing Disclosure will replace the HUD-1, GFE, and TIL disclosures provided at settlement and must be delivered to the consumer three (3) business days prior to consummation.
The 1,888 pages of regulation that mandates the new disclosures and delivery requirements will not only impact lenders, but also other industry professionals. Because the rule expressly holds lenders liable for the accuracy and delivery of the Closing Disclosure, settlement agents companies and realtors must work closely to deliver all of the information necessary to ensure settlement is not delayed as a result of the three (3) business day delivery requirement.
NFM Lending is preparing for these changes and is constantly training our loan originators, realtors, settlement agents, and other industry partners to be up to date on this important industry change.
To view the new disclosures, visit the CFPB’s website at:
http://www.consumerfinance.gov/knowbeforeyouowe/#disclosure
If you have any questions about NFM’s loan programs, please click here to contact one of our licensed loan originators.
LINTHICUM, MD., March 25, 2015 — NFM Lending is pleased to announce the opening of a new branch in Palm Harbor, Florida. The branch address is 2142 Alternate 19, Suite D, located in Palm Harbor. The NFM Lending branch will focus its lending platform throughout Florida. NFM Lending offers Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, FNMA, Jumbo, and many other loan options. Visit the branch page to learn more: www.nfmlending.com/fl306
With over 18 years of leadership and residential mortgage experience, Branch Manager JoAnn Rooney attributes her success to growing up with 9 siblings, and her mid-west roots of hard work, honesty, integrity, exceeding customer expectations, and teamwork. JoAnn Rooney is an active member with both professional and community associations such as: incoming president for the Dunedin North Rotary club; graduate of 2007 Leadership Pinellas; Florida Association of Mortgage Professionals (FAMP); and speaker chair and board member for the National Association of Mortgage Brokers (NAMB).
Before joining the NFM Lending team, JoAnn Rooney founded and served as President of two Florida-based, full service mortgage brokerage companies: Your Mortgage Source, Inc. and My Mortgage Source, Inc. JoAnn Rooney and her team have been helping clients with all their mortgage needs for 18 years. The team will continue to service their borrowers with the same dedication to detail and customer service that has allowed our clients to be our best source for referrals.
The Palm Harbor branch currently has openings for qualified Mortgage Loan Originators for full and part-time positions. The branch’s goal is to continue to provide the same commitment and dedication to borrowers ranging from first time homebuyers, to seasoned buyers looking for their next home, a second home, or investment properties.
For more information please contact:
JoAnn Rooney
Branch Manager
NMLS# 150917
Phone: 727-938-9007 x 2224
Fax:727-386-4195
jrooney@nfmlending.com
www.nfmlending.com
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending (formerly NFM, Inc.) is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 28 states across the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.”
For the original press release, click here.
LINTHICUM, MD, March 23, 2015— NFM Lending is proud to announce that Bernadette Pearson, Director of Human Resources, has been honored with a SmartCEO Executive Management Award for her service to NFM Lending.
The SmartCEO Executive Management Award (EMA) Program recognizes C-suite executives that have gone above and beyond in their roles. Winners are divided into five categories: CFOs, CIOs/CTOs, General Counsel/Chief Legal Offices, Chief Human Resources Officers/Directors of Human Resources, and CXOs, for miscellaneous executive titles. Mrs. Pearson received the 2015 EMA Award for CHRO/Director of Human Resources for her exemplary talent management, improvement of organizational efficiency and workforce strategy, and her ability to develop and manage a strong corporate culture.
“Bernadette works with passion as an HR executive at NFM Lending,” said David Silverman, CEO of NFM Lending. “She gives 100 percent, and her actions speak to how much she cares about both the quality of her work as well as delivering the highest level of benefits to the employees of NFM. Bernadette consistently steps up and takes on whatever volume of work is required to best serve others and shares that energy with others, particularly with the charities that NFM is committed to.”
Pearson received her award at a ceremony at the Westin BWI Hotel on Thursday, March 19, 2015, and will be profiled in the March/April 2015 edition of the SmartCEO Magazine, both in print and online.
“I am honored to have been chosen to receive the SmartCEO Executive Management Award,” said Pearson. “We have worked hard at NFM to create an environment in which our employees feel valued and empowered to succeed. I am proud to have a role in growing and developing a diverse, cohesive team, and I look forward to continuing to cultivate the NFM family in the coming years.”
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending (formerly NFM, Inc.) is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 29 states across the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.”
For more information about NFM Lending, please contact:
NFM Lending
Toll Free: 1-888-233-0092
pr@nfmlending.com
www.nfmlending.com
Twitter handle: @NFM_Lending
For the online press release, click here.
Moving into a new home is an exciting experience, and an important life milestone. Whether it’s the first time you’ve ever moved, or if you’ve moved many times before, being unprepared can make it stressful. Here’s a schedule for the month leading up to your move-in date to help you get prepared and stay prepared for this new chapter in your life:
Four Weeks Prior to Move:
Three Weeks Prior to Move:
2 Weeks Prior to Move:
1 Week Prior to Move
Moving Day
Moving doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience. Being well-prepared will help you eliminate stress from the moving process and transition smoothly into your new home. Click here for more moving information and tips.
For a printable version of this checklist, click here.
If you are looking to begin the home-buying process soon, click here to contact one of our Licensed Mortgage Loan Originators today to pre-qualify and begin the home searching process with confidence.
LINTHICUM, MD, March 16, 2015 — NFM Lending is excited to announce it will be sponsoring a free Lunch and Learn seminar titled “Better Homes for a Better Community.” The seminar will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2015, at Windsor Park Children’s School located at 2601 North Rolling Road, Windsor Mill, MD 21244, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Refreshments will be provided, and attendance will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
The seminar, co-sponsored with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., is intended to educate Baltimore City and County residents on topics such as:
NFM Lending’s General Counsel, LaTasha Rowe, and Mortgage Loan Originator, Jeremy Poling (NMLS #726269), will be speaking at this event and answering any questions the attendees may have.
For more information about the seminar, please contact:
Derek Mitchell
Director of Bigger and Better Business, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Staff Accountant, NFM Lending
Phone: 410-588-6211
About NFM Lending
NFM Lending (formerly NFM, Inc.) is a mortgage lending company currently licensed in 28 states across the U.S. The company was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1998. They attribute their success in the mortgage industry to their steadfast commitment to customers and the community. NFM Lending has firmly planted itself in the home loan marketplace as “America’s Common Sense Residential Mortgage Lender.”
About Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was founded at Howard University in Washington, D.C., on January 9, 1914, by three young African-American male students. The Founders, Honorable A. Langston Taylor, Honorable Leonard F. Morse, and Honorable Charles I. Brown, wanted to organize a Greek letter fraternity that would truly exemplify the ideals of brotherhood, scholarship, and service.
For online press release, click here.
NFM Lending is excited to announce that they are sponsoring and participating in the 2015 Red Shoe Shuffle 5k Race and Walk to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities Baltimore. This will be the 4th year in a row that NFM Lending has sponsored and participated in the Red Shoe Shuffle, and they are excited to do it again! The event this year is taking place on Sunday, April 12th, starting at 9am.
NFM Lending is committed to giving back to the communities they live and work in, and the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore (RMHCB) is one of the key charities they support. The RMHCB is a charity that provides a home away from home for seriously ill children and their families. The House is known for offering hope, compassion, support and love when families need it the most. NFM Lending currently donates a portion of every mortgage loan closed in Maryland to the RMHCB. NFM Lending believes that participating in the Red Shoe Shuffle is a great way to meet the families of the House and show their support.
NFM Lending would like to invite you to join them in the Red Shoe Shuffle 5k Race & Walk. The shuffle will start at the Ronald McDonald House on West Lexington Street, loop around Light Street and the Inner Harbor, and finishes at the Ronald McDonald House. There will be activities before and after the shuffle including a Warm Up, a McNugget Dash for runners under 10, and a Post Shuffle Party. To learn more about the Red Shoe Shuffle or to participate please visit their website. To learn more about what the Ronald McDonald House of Charities of Baltimore does, visit their website. You can also join the NFM Lending team and shuffle with them in this wonderful event. NFM Lending hopes to see all of you there!