For some parents, the start of the new school year is a welcome return to routine and the end of needing to find daytime entertainment or child care.  Other parents mourn the loss of carefree summer days and a big hit to the wallet. Going back to school challenges parents to pay for all the…

The ability to work from home is a benefit many professionals embrace. But productivity is only as good as the environment we work in. No matter how frequently you work without leaving the house — whether you’re self-employed and home-based full time or if you telecommute just a couple of days a week — it’s…

While we would never suggest trading in a day at the beach or lake for something as mundane as changing out your air conditioner filters, there are some projects that should be on your late summer to-do list. Choose a rainy or cool day to get them done, or do a few at a time…

Imagine you owe nothing on credit cards, student loans, credit lines, and cars. Better yet, your children’s college savings funds are in good standing and you’re on track to have your mortgage paid off in half the time you expected — 15 years rather than 30. Instead of worrying about making mortgage payments during your…

Maybe you’ve been house hunting for a while and haven’t found anything you like in your price range. Maybe you’ve been living in an older house and decided that no matter what, your next home will be brand new. New construction often is an affordable option for purchasing the home you want, in the town…

It seems like everywhere you look lately in New Hampshire, the real estate market is tighter and tighter. A recent surge in housing prices has created a sellers’ market. From concerns about new buyers being priced out of the Seacoast to the fast-paced development of condos in the Lakes Region impacting views of the shoreline…

One of the most important factors for many families, or expectant parents, in choosing where to purchase a home is the quality of the local schools. Most real estate listings even include the greatschools.org rating of the elementary, middle and high schools alongside the property details. To get their kids into the school district of…

When it comes time to decide where to live and raise a family, homes in your first choice community might be out of your price range. Aside from the selling price of the house, the property tax rate could be what tips the scale. If the quality of schools is what attracts you to a…

Spring and summer are the most welcome of all seasons in New Hampshire – the snow has (finally!) melted, and it’s time to open those windows and let the fresh air back in. Something about tidying up at this time of year can make you feel refreshed, energized, lighter and happier all over. Here are…

If you’ve ever wished for a few more hours in the day to accomplish more or fit extra fun and relaxation into your life, you’re not alone. For many of us, the drain on our time is caused by the commute to and from work.  Hours are wasted sitting behind the wheel, often in frustrating…

When the weather turns warm, families — especially in New England — are naturally drawn to the outdoors. Spending time outside gives kids a chance to stretch their legs, away from the draw of television, devices, and video games. If you’re looking for fun things to do with the kids in southern New Hampshire, check…