Wouldn’t it be nice to receive some free money to help buy a home? Federal, state, and local governments, plus housing foundations and charitable organizations provide grants to first-time and/or low-income homebuyers in need of help.

Why help? Homeownership creates stability, increases tax revenues for community improvements, and offers more support for local shops and services. Incomes have not kept up with inflation, making it more difficult to save for a down payment and buy a home amid escalating prices. The sooner these important groups can buy homes, the sooner they can build equity and accumulating wealth through real estate.

The National Homebuyers’ Fund awards housing grants up to 5% of a home’s purchase price, either in the form of down payment or closing costs assistance. Credit scores and debt-to-income ratios are flexible whether you’re applying for a conventional loan or a government guaranteed loan through FHA, VA or USDA. Another great source is Governmentgrants.us, which offers a step-by-step application for homebuying grants.

The biggest benefit is that grants don’t have to be repaid. Housing grants are typically obtained through your mortgage lender and via Internet searches for homebuying grants in your city or state.

Any bathroom remodeling plan should solve existing issues, such as improving functionality, accessibility, attractiveness, and ultimately, your property’s value. But remodeling can cost you more if you ignore safety codes, cut corners, or change the layout.

1. Plans should meet current building and safety codes. The next buyer for your home could ask you to bring the bathroom up to code.
2. Don’t cut corners to fit an unrealistic budget. The Family Handyman advises that it’s too easy for DIYers to buy the wrong sized drainage piping or install them at the wrong slope for proper drainage, causing frequent clogs and leaks. Don’t skip installing ventilation fans, as they help prevent mold, mildew, and household odors. If you’re not a licensed plumber or electrician, it’s safer to hire a professional.
3. Architectural Digest says the most expensive bathroom remodels change the layout. Think of the labor required to remove and dispose of fixtures, demolish or move walls, change the electrical wiring, and tear up floors to relocate plumbing pipes. If the bathroom changes you want to make truly add value to the home, go ahead. Otherwise, updating surfaces and fixtures should improve your home and give you plenty of enjoyment.