Category Archives: Home Buying & Selling

Financial Considerations Before You Go Solar

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Switching to solar power can be a smart move for your wallet and the planet. But before you dive into solar panel installation, there are several important financial and practical considerations to keep in mind. At First Financial, we want you to make the best choice for your home and budget. Here’s what to think about before you decide to make the switch.

1. Is Solar Worth it for You?

Whether solar makes sense for you depends on many factors, including your current electric costs, your finances, your home’s potential, and how long you plan to stay there. Start by calculating your average monthly electric bill over the past year. Then, use online tools like Google Project Sunroof, EnergySage, or SolarReviews to estimate your home’s solar potential. These types of calculators factor in your roof size, orientation, and shading to project how much energy your panels could generate and when you might break even on your investment.

Keep in mind that estimates can vary widely between tools, so use them as a guide rather than a guarantee. If you plan to move within a few years, installing solar may not offer the potential savings you need to justify the upfront cost.

2. Is Your Roof Ready?

Before you invest in solar, assess the condition of your roof. If your roof is older and in need of repairs or a replacement within the next few years, it’s best to take care of this before installation. Otherwise, you might face the costly process of removing and reinstalling your panels. Ideally, your roof and solar panels should have similar life spans. Solar panels often come with a 20–25 year warranty, so it’s smart to ensure your roofing material will last a similar amount of time to avoid added expenses later.

3. Shop Around for the Right Installer

Don’t settle for the first solar installer you find. Collect multiple quotes and research each company’s reputation, certifications, and customer reviews. Comparing options will help you find the best value and ensure you’re working with a trustworthy provider. A quality installer will also be able to walk you through financing options, local incentives, and what you can expect in terms of performance and maintenance.

4. How to Compare Solar Proposals

When reviewing solar proposals, focus on these key points:

  • Price Per Watt: Lower cost per watt typically means a better deal.
  • Warranties: Look for 25 year panel warranties and 10–25 year inverter warranties.
  • Rated Power: Aim for panels with 420W to 440W for better efficiency.
  • Annual Production Estimates: Consider whether the system will meet 100% of your current energy use, and its ability to cover more if you add an electric vehicle or appliances.
  • Equipment Quality: Research solar panels and inverters. Microinverters are generally preferred over string inverters for better reliability.

Choosing high-quality components and a reliable installer will help maximize your investment and system performance.

5. Ensure Proper Insurance Coverage

Solar panel installation can impact your homeowner’s insurance. Before starting your project, contact your insurer to confirm your policy covers potential damages during and after installation. Some cities and states also require proof of insurance to approve solar projects, so make sure you meet all local requirements before moving forward.

6. Don’t Miss Out on Rebates and Incentives

The federal solar tax credit allows homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes, available through 2033. That’s a substantial savings, and it applies regardless of the amount you spend, your income level, or whether you itemize deductions.

Some states and local governments offer additional incentives, like property tax exemptions or cash rebates. Research all the available programs in your area to maximize your savings. Keep in mind that you must purchase your system to qualify for the federal tax credit — leasing disqualifies you from this benefit.

7. Financing Your Solar Investment

Solar panels can be a big upfront expense, but financing options can make it manageable. Using a First Financial Home Equity Loan can be a smart and affordable way to fund your project.*

Features of our Home Equity Loans:

  • Competitive rates
  • No pre-payment penalties
  • No application fees
  • No points or closing costs
  • Flexible terms up to 20 years
  • Fixed monthly payments

We can provide the funds you need while keeping your payments predictable.

Thinking About Going Solar? We’re Here to Help.

At First Financial, we’re committed to helping our members make smart financial choices. Whether you’re exploring solar or other home improvements, we have the tools and expertise to support your goals. Ready to learn more? Call us at 732.312.1500, visit a local branch, or apply online.

*First Financial FCU (FFFCU) will waive closing costs at inception of loan. If loan is terminated within the first 2 years of opening, closing cost waiver is revoked and the borrower(s) will be required to pay back closing costs in full to FFFCU. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Equity Loan, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See FFFCU for details or visit firstffcu.com for all current rates. Rates for financing up to 80% of Appraised Value less other Mortgages.

Home Sweet … Home Improvement Scam?

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Deciding to take on a home improvement can be a big commitment, especially when you have to entrust a contractor with turning your dreams into reality. Unfortunately, scammers posing as trustworthy contractors are promising to do the work – and leaving your home and wallet to take the hit. Before you hire a home improvement contractor, consider these red flags that could indicate that a home improvement scam is happening to you.

What is a Home Improvement Scam?

A home improvement scam begins with receiving a flyer in the mail, viewing an advertisement on social media, or being met with an unsolicited knock on the door from a contractor. The so-called “contractor” will say they were working on another project in your neighborhood and had leftover supplies or were looking for new projects to take on because they would be working “in the area” for the foreseeable future. They are hoping that you have a home improvement need, or that you have been waiting to find a contractor that can meet your requirements. The contractor will somehow check off all the boxes – whether it’s completing the project in a short timeframe or within your budget. However, before you hire the contractor and even after the contractor begins your project – the red flags will start to come out. In the end, your home improvement project might cause additional damage to your home or financial situation, or not be completed at all.

Signs of a Home Improvement Scam

It might seem difficult to tell the difference between a trustworthy and not-so-trustworthy contractor. Below are some red flags that can signal you’ve been approached by a scammer.

  • Pressure to Make an Immediate Decision: A real contractor knows that undertaking a home improvement project isn’t a decision that can always be made immediately. Whether it’s consulting others that should be involved in the decision-making process, or confirming that the project is in your budget – there are countless reasons to “sleep on it.” Plus, getting the green light from your partner and your budget – will make you confident in your decision. A fraudster will persuade you into making an immediate decision so you don’t have time to pick apart the interaction or analyze any red flags.
  • Unrealistic Budget or Timeframe: There might be a reason that the contractors before this one could not complete your project to your specifications. Be cautious if you are approached by a contractor who says they can complete your project in half the time or for half the price that other contractors have given you.
  • Asking for Payment Upfront or Only Accepting Cash: This could signal that a contractor is not planning on completing the project, or that they are not planning on completing the project correctly. If a contractor asks you for payment upfront to “buy the materials,” be cautious.

Tips to Avoid Home Improvement Scams

Here are ways you can protect your home, and your wallet – from home improvement scams.

  • Ask for References: Scammers will be reluctant to hand over references, namely because they do not have good ones. Additionally, scammers won’t want to wait around for you to do your homework because they know they won’t get your business based on what you find. Reputable contractors will gladly hand over references so you can confidently make the decision in hiring them to complete your home improvement project. Their references will speak to the quality of work you can expect if you hired them to take on your project. If someone you know and trust recently completed a home improvement project, consider asking them for recommendations.
  • Get Multiple Estimates: Obtain written estimates detailing the work to be completed, the materials needed, and the anticipated price and completion date. If one estimate is substantially lower than all of the others, consider why this estimate is the odd one out. It might be tempting to go with the lowest estimate. However, this low estimate might end up costing you more in the long-run if the work is completed poorly, is completed using substandard materials, or isn’t completed at all.
  • Do Your Research: Check with organizations, like your local Home Builders Association, to see if any complaints were made against a contractor. You should also look up the business or contractor’s name with words like “scam,” “fraud,” or “complaint.” The Better Business Bureau also has a tool to find BBB Accredited businesses near you.
  • Know the Law: Ensure that the contractor you hire has the proper identification, licensing, and insurance needed to complete the project in your state. Additionally, if you are signing a contract to complete work – ensure that the contract includes all the specifics of completing the project.

First Financial knows that finding the right contractor is important. If you believe that you have fallen victim to a home improvement scam and your financial information has been compromised, don’t hesitate to visit a local branch or call us at 732.312.1500.

If you have found the right contractor and are looking for a way to finance your home improvement project, be sure to check out our Home Improvement Loan. We’ve got great rates, up to 10-year terms, and fixed monthly payments.* Apply online 24/7!

*Available on primary residence only. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Improvement Loan and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth of Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. Rate will vary based off of applicant’s credit rating. Not all applicants who apply will be approved, subject to underwriting guidelines and credit approval. Lien position and appraisal valuation may affect the maximum loan amount. Not all applicants will qualify for maximum Loan to Value (LTV) ratio. It will be based off of creditworthiness, property type, occupancy, lien position, and loan amount. Rates will be affected by LTV or combined LTV if there is another lien on the property. Loan amounts over $7,500.00 will be required to give First Financial FCU a security interest in their property. Rates will vary based off of lien position and whether the loan is mortgage secured or unsecured. For mortgage secured Home Improvement loans First Financial FCU (FFFCU) will waive closing costs at inception of loan. If loan is terminated within the first 2 years of opening, closing cost waiver is revoked and are required to b

The True Cost of Homeownership

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Achieving homeownership is a common goal amongst adults in the U.S., and is to some – considered to be a right-of-passage into the adult world. The home of your dreams might come with a hefty price tag – and that selling price is really just the tip of the iceberg.  From insurance to property taxes, maintenance and utilities – the total price you will pay to live in your home boils down to more than just your monthly mortgage payment. While you determine what you can afford to pay for your home, be sure to factor in these common expenses associated with homeownership so they don’t catch you off guard.

Insurance

Homeowners Insurance protects homeowners from the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property, as well costs that would arise from someone getting hurt while on your property. Although different policies offer various levels of coverage, homeowners insurance is meant to protect you from the nearly impossible feat of paying out-of-pocket to replace your home if an incident should occur. It is important to remember that even the most comprehensive insurance policies exclude certain events, so it is important to try and expect the unexpected by also setting emergency funds aside. According to NerdWallet, the average annual cost of homeowners insurance is $2,110 per year, or approximately $176 per month – for $300,000 worth of dwelling coverage.

Property Taxes

Property Taxes are fees charged on real estate by state and local government to pay for services and upkeep. The amount of taxes you owe typically depends on your area’s tax rates and the assessed value of your property, usually based on an annual appraisal. Unfortunately, these are an unavoidable aspect of homeownership. However, do remember that your property taxes are to thank for services that aid the local community, such as schools and police.

HOA Fees

Homeowners Association (HOA) Fees are only charged if your home is part of a homeowners association. A homeowners association is an organization that enforces rules on properties and residents, as well as collects fees to maintain common areas and facilities. The HOA fees you may be charged depend on numerous factors, such as the type of property you own, the location, and the amenities that are made available to residents. For example, you may be charged higher HOA fees than someone in another local development because you have access to a community pool or gym. If you live in a major metro area, you can expect higher HOA fees due to location. According to Homes, the national average HOA fee is $243 per month.

Maintenance and Upkeep

A common expense associated with homeownership is maintenance on your home. If you have ever asked a homeowner to recall the price of replacing their roof or their hot water heater and they have reacted with absolute horror, it’s because those replacements cost a pretty penny.  According to Consumer Affairs, home maintenance costs can range from $50 to over $12,000 depending on what needs to be repaired or replaced. As you might expect, there is a big difference in the cost of repairing your roof versus replacing your roof. One way to save money on home maintenance costs in the long-run is to keep up with a regular maintenance schedule on various systems and appliances. This type of regular maintenance can catch a smaller issue before it becomes a bigger one – and keep costs more manageable. Additionally, certain manufacturer warranties require this regular maintenance for your warranty to remain in effect.

Utilities

The old saying goes that the people is what “makes a house a home,” but try making a home without electricity or running water. All joking aside, paying for utilities is necessary to keep your home running. The cost of utilities widely varies depending on the size, location, and age of your home. Older homes may be less energy-efficient, driving up your electric bill by letting in cold air in the winter and hot air in the summer. Additionally, the cost of certain utilities can fluctuate depending on the time of the year. For example, your electric bill can fluctuate based on how often you are using your air conditioning. The prices of certain utilities can fluctuate based on factors largely out of your control, like changes in regulations or supply and demand impacting the price of natural gas. Common utilities you can expect to pay for are electric, natural gas, water and sewer, trash removal, and cable/internet.

In today’s market, navigating homeownership can be tricky – even without the less obvious challenges and expenses to account for. That’s why the mortgage experts in First Financial’s Loan Department offer complimentary video chats and phone calls to assist with the homebuying process, no matter what stage you’re in.

If you’ve found your dream home and are ready to apply, we’re also here to help you through the mortgage application process, or provide you with a quick pre-approval if you’re just starting to shop.* You can also visit a local branch or call 732.312.1500 and select option 4. We’re happy to help you finance your home sweet home!

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Subject to credit approval. Credit worthiness determines your APR. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history and are for qualified borrowers. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. Higher rates may apply depending on terms of loan and credit worthiness. Minimum mortgage loan amount is $100,000. Available on primary residence only. The Interest Rates, Annual Percentage Rate (APR), and fees are based on current market rates, are for informational purposes only. Rates and APRs listed are based on a mortgage loan amount of $250,000. Mortgage insurance may be required depending on loan guidelines. This is not a credit decision or a commitment to lend. If mortgage insurance is required, the mortgage insurance premium could increase the APR and the monthly mortgage payment. See Credit Union for details. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Mortgage and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties.

Protect Yourself from Mortgage Closing Scams and Wire Fraud

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Closing on a new home is one of life’s most exciting milestones, but it also comes with financial risks — especially due to increasing mortgage closing scams and wire fraud. Scammers have been known to target homebuyers during the closing process, attempting to divert large sums of money into fraudulent accounts through phishing schemes. Falling victim to one of these scams can mean losing your down payment and closing costs, sometimes totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.

At First Financial, we want to ensure our members are informed and prepared during primetime for buying a home – spring. Here’s what you need to know about mortgage closing scams and how to protect yourself from wire fraud.

How Mortgage Closing Scams Work

Fraudsters will often use sophisticated phishing tactics to deceive homebuyers into sending their closing funds to fake accounts. Here’s how they do it:

  • Email compromise: Scammers may hack into or spoof the email accounts of real estate agents, lenders, title companies, or attorneys. They will create similar email addresses, changing just a letter or number which often goes unnoticed. If successfully hacked, email conversations are monitored to identify upcoming closings.
  • Fake wire instructions: Once they’ve gathered enough details, the scammer will send an email impersonating a trusted party. These emails usually contain official-looking branding, logos, and signatures to appear legitimate.
  • Urgent request for a wire transfer: The fraudulent email will instruct the homebuyer to send funds to a different bank account, often citing last minute changes or updates.
  • Quick withdrawal of funds: Once the money is wired, the scammer will immediately withdraw or transfer the funds – making recovery extremely difficult, if not impossible.

These scams can be incredibly convincing, and even careful homebuyers can fall victim if they don’t take proper precautions.

Signs of Mortgage Closing Scams & Wire Fraud

  • Unexpected last minute changes to wire instructions – If you receive an email stating that your payment details have changed, be extremely cautious and call the title company or lender directly.
  • Emails with urgent or high-pressure language – Scammers typically try to create a sense of urgency, making you feel like you must act immediately.
  • Slightly altered email addresses – Fraudsters will create emails that look nearly identical to those of real estate professionals, often with minor spelling changes or different domains (e.g., @company.com vs. @company-mail.com). Always double check the email addresses you are responding to before sending money or financial information.
  • Requests for financial information via email – Legitimate real estate professionals, lenders, title agencies or attorneys will never ask for sensitive financial details through regular unsecure email.
  • Links or attachments from unknown sources – Clicking on malicious links can give scammers access to your email account and financial details.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Verify wire instructions in person or over the phone – Before wiring any funds, call your lender or title company using a trusted phone number — not one from an email. Confirm the payment details with someone you have spoken to over the course of the mortgage process.
  • Avoid emailing financial information – Email is not secure, and sensitive financial information should never be shared via email. If you need to send any documents, ask about secure portals or encrypted options.
  • Be wary of last minute changes – Scammers will often introduce urgent changes to wire transfer details right before closing. If you receive unexpected instructions, verify them with your lender or title company in person or via a known phone number.
  • Use multi-factor authentication – Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your email and financial accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification when logging in.
  • Monitor your transactions – Follow up immediately with your title company or lender after any transactions to confirm they were received. Any discrepancies should be reported immediately.
  • Establish a security code with your real estate team – Work with your real estate agent and title company to create a unique security phrase or code word to use when discussing financial transactions.

What to Do If You Become a Victim of Mortgage Wire Fraud

  • Contact your bank – Request a wire recall to try to recover the funds.
  • Report any fraud to the FBI – File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.
  • Notify your real estate agent, title company, and lender – They may be able to assist with stopping the transaction or preventing further fraud attempts.

Time is critical — the faster you act, the better your chances of recovering your money.

Protect Your Home Purchase with First Financial

We’re committed to helping our members navigate the homebuying process safely. Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, looking for home financing advice, or seeking fraud prevention tips – we’re here to help.

To learn about our mortgage services, check out our website, call us at 732.312.1500, or visit a branch. Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more expert advice on protecting your finances!

Do’s and Don’ts When Accessing Your Home Equity

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Accessing the equity in your home can provide financial flexibility, whether you’re looking to fund renovations, consolidate debt, or cover unexpected expenses. However, with such a significant financial decision – it’s essential to make informed choices that protect your long-term stability. Home equity products like loans and lines of credit (HELOCs) offer great benefits, but they should be approached carefully to avoid potential pitfalls. Below are key tips to help you navigate the process.

Do: Understand the Product That Suits Your Needs

When using your home equity, it’s helpful to know whether a home equity loan or a HELOC is the better option. A home equity loan offers a lump sum of money with a fixed interest rate, making it easier to manage predictable, long-term expenses. A HELOC on the other hand, functions more like a credit line – with variable interest rates and the flexibility to borrow as needed. Choosing the right product depends on the nature of your financial goals.

Don’t: Apply for Additional Credit Before Accessing Equity

If you’re considering applying for a home equity loan or HELOC, avoid applying for other loans or credit cards during the process. Opening new accounts can affect your credit score and impact your ability to get the best rates on your home equity product. Additionally, taking on more debt can increase your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), making you a less favorable candidate for a loan.

Do: Research Lenders for Competitive Rates

Just like with any loan, it’s beneficial to shop around and compare lenders before committing to a home equity product. Interest rates, terms, and fees can vary widely between institutions, so it’s a smart move to gather multiple quotes. Even a small difference in the interest rate can result in substantial savings over the life of the loan. First Financial Home Equity Loans offer great rates, no pre-payment penalty, no application fees, no points or closing costs, flexible terms up to 20 years, and fixed monthly payments.*

Don’t: Make Large Purchases or Increase Your Spending

In the lead-up to applying for a home equity loan or HELOC, it’s wise to hold off on making large purchases or racking up credit card debt. Increased spending can lower your credit score and increase your DTI, hurting your chances of getting approved for the loan or resulting in higher interest rates. It’s best to keep your finances as steady as possible during this time. Consider creating a budget to curb unnecessary spending and demonstrate strong financial discipline.

Do: Use Home Equity for Value Enhancing Projects

One of the most responsible ways to use home equity is to invest in home improvements that can enhance the value of your property. Renovations such as kitchen upgrades, bathroom remodels, or energy-efficient improvements not only improve your living space – but can also increase the market value of your home, ultimately boosting your overall equity.

Don’t: Neglect Regular Payments or Change Your Employment

Consistency is key when applying for a home equity loan or HELOC. Make sure all your payments—whether for your mortgage or other loans, are made on time. Missed or late payments can hurt your credit score and jeopardize your chances of getting favorable terms.

If you’re considering a job change, it’s a good idea to delay the switch until after your loan is secured. Changing jobs or reducing your work hours may make you seem like a less stable borrower.

Do: Maintain an Emergency Fund

Before you dip into your home equity, ensure you have a solid emergency fund. Accessing home equity means using your home as collateral, so if you’re unable to make your payments, there’s a risk of losing your home. A financial cushion helps prevent the need to use home equity for smaller, unexpected expenses.

Successfully & Responsibly Access Your Home Equity with First Financial

Home equity can be a valuable financial resource, but it should be used with care. By making informed decisions and avoiding common mistakes, you can maximize the benefits of your home equity while protecting your financial future. At First Financial, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you make the best decisions for your needs.

For personalized advice or more information on home equity options, call 732.312.1500 option 4, or visit a branch today. Be sure to subscribe to the First Scoop blog for ongoing tips and insights into managing your finances.

*First Financial FCU (FFFCU) will waive closing costs at inception of loan. If loan is terminated within the first 2 years of opening, closing cost waiver is revoked and the borrower(s) will be required to pay back closing costs in full to FFFCU. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Equity Loan, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See FFFCU for details or visit firstffcu.com for all current rates. Rates for financing up to 80% of Appraised Value less other Mortgages.

Spice Up Your Home This Fall with These Money-Saving Redecorating Tips

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We get it – giving your home a complete “makeover” can seem like an expensive task, which often puts it on the backburner in place of seemingly more important items on the to-do list. However, we often fail to consider the impact of our surroundings on our day-to-day lives and mental and emotional well-being. Janet Sloan of Home Decor Wise says that a home decorated to resonate with your personality and identity can have profound psychological benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety, promoting emotional well-being, and enhancing productivity. Thanks to DIY (“Do-It-Yourself”) enthusiasts who share their creative ideas on Pinterest, TikTok, and the like, there are plenty of sources of inspiration when it comes to redecorating – and for finding cheap alternatives, too. Whether it’s finding an affordable alternative to an otherwise expensive piece of décor, or getting your hands dirty and “DIY-ing it,” there are plenty of ways to redecorate without breaking the bank, especially if you’re redecorating every time the seasons change. Give these money-saving redecorating tips a whirl when giving your home a “refresh” this fall.

1. One Person’s “Trash” is Another Person’s Treasure: Estate sales, flea markets, and garage sales can all be a great place to start when you are in search of inspiration for your next redecoration or DIY project. Someone could be tossing a piece of furniture or a fixture that no longer serves a purpose in their home, only for you to discover that you can recycle and repurpose it into something you’ll love seeing in your home every day. When you’re roaming around, keep an open mind — you never know just how many creative spins you can put on an item you see!

2. Mount Wooden Crates: Wooden crates can easily be turned into wall-mounted shelves or displays! You can find wooden crates with a certain finish, such as those with a rustic feel, or unfinished if you’d like to paint or stain them yourself. Try using them as a makeshift bookshelf or display for your pumpkins and gourds. You can even lay some fall garland across the tops of the wooden crates to give them more of a festive fall feel!

3. New Uses for an Old Dresser: Among the many things you can find at a local sale will likely be a dresser that someone is letting go of. Dressers are a common piece of furniture that can be repurposed into supply storage. Simply swap out the drawers for fabric bins, sand and repaint the outside as needed or desired, and now you have a wealth of newly discovered storage space! If you’d rather leave the compartments open, you can display your items on the wood as opposed to putting fabric bins within.

4. Repurpose Your Pumpkin: A pumpkin is a common fall gift that keeps on giving! If you have one pumpkin too many and you’re looking to repurpose it, try hallowing it out and making a pumpkin planter or pumpkin vase. To make a pumpkin planter, simply drill or carve a hole at the bottom for drainage, fill it with soil, and plant the fall flowers of your choice. If you are going the pumpkin vase route, you can fill the hallowed-out pumpkin with fake flowers or hide a vase bearing water and real flowers. Now you have a beautiful table arrangement, and can use the insides of the pumpkin for a pumpkin dessert or bake the seeds in the oven for a snack, too.

To take your pumpkin planter to the next level, make it a hanging planter! We recommend swapping out the real pumpkin for a lightweight craft pumpkin such as this one, because they are typically too heavy to hang. Here’s some instructions on turning your faux pumpkin into a hanging planter.

5. Potpourri Can Double as a Simmer Pot: You might commonly hear people reference “pumpkin spice” during this season, and it’s not just because of the lattes! Aside from the countless decorative items fall is associated with, fall is also commonly associated with scents, such as pumpkin spice, apples, and cinnamon. Potpourri opens the door to an abundance of creativity, as there is no right or wrong way to combine natural plant materials to make a fall scent. A simple way to make a fall-inspired potpourri is by combining dried apples, cinnamon sticks, and fall leaves in a decorative bowl, and applying the same essential oils to magnify the scents. After you are done displaying this potpourri as décor, use it as a simmer pot to give your home that warm, cozy fall feel.

6. Reuse Old Throw Pillows: Whether you find throw pillows at a sale, or have a few laying around the house, reusing old throw pillows can be an inexpensive way to transform a room. There’s a couple of ways to repurpose old throw pillows that don’t require expertise in art – like trying out embroidery or fabric paint. Embroidery involves decorating fabric and other materials using a needle to stitch thread or yarn. You can order fall embroidery patterns and kits online, or find a tutorial online if you have the materials you need. If breaking out the needle and thread isn’t quite up your alley, you can use fabric paint to paint a design right onto the throw pillows. You can trace a design you find online, or use free-hand.

7. A Ladder is Not Just a Ladder: One of our favorite creative, and surprisingly functional spins on a common household item – is turning a ladder into a shelf or storage. Some of these functional spins include turning your ladder into a bookshelf, shelving space, or a clothing rack. DIY Enthusiasts details a few of these creative ways to reuse an old ladder at home, many of which include materials you likely already have. Give it a read and try to envision how one of these ladder shelf ideas can change the feel of a room in your home.

Not only are these inexpensive alternatives to traditional interior design, but they will leave you with a fun project and a great story to tell guests if you are hosting in your home this autumn.

We know that some redecorating ideas require more than just traipsing around a local garage sale until you stumble upon a piece of furniture or a fixture that inspires you. First Financial’s Home Improvement Loan is a great option for those looking to chase some of those bigger home improvement dreams, such as redesigning your kitchen. Our Home Improvement Loan features great rates, flexible terms up to 10 years, a fixed monthly payment, and more.* If you’re ready to get started, you can apply online 24/7. If you have any questions or inquiries, don’t hesitate to stop by your local branch or call our Loan Department at 732.312.1500 Option 4.

*Available on primary residence only. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Improvement Loan and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. Rate will vary based off of applicant’s credit rating. Not all applicants who apply will be approved, subject to underwriting guidelines and credit approval. Visit firstffcu.com for additional information.