Brandy Novak - Preferred Lending Services

05/29/2026

When buying your first home, knowing all the intricacies of the process is imperative! Laura Schmidt and I had lunch with a couple who are ready to invest in real estate. Education is key in sustainable homeownership and I love working with a referral partner that feels just as passionate about that element of the process!

Food was great- a must to try if in the beautiful Plant City area.

05/28/2026

Renovations have a way of spreading into rooms you weren't planning to touch. A little prep work before the crew arrives can save you from a lot of cleanups (and potentially a few costly surprises) after.

These 20 tips cover everything from sealing off living areas to protecting flooring, so your home comes out the other side in better shape than it went in.

Learn the best ways to protect your home during a remodel with these simple yet effective tips. Whet...

05/27/2026

Traditional budgets require a lot of upkeep, such as categorizing every purchase, checking balances and adjusting as you go.

The anti-budget takes a different approach: set aside savings and fixed expenses first, then spend what's left without obsessing over every line item. It's structured where it counts, flexible everywhere else. And for people who find detailed tracking unsustainable, it can be an easier way to stay on top of finances and still work toward long-term goals like homeownership.

Traditional budgeting (and tracking every dime) doesn't suit everyone. If you want a less labor-inte...

05/26/2026

As Military May comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to clear up some of the most common myths around VA loans.

There’s still a lot of misinformation out there — and understanding the facts can make a big difference when exploring your options.

Take a look at this helpful breakdown 👇

This blog post will provide precise information, clarify misunderstandings, and offer authoritative ...

05/20/2026

Your yard doesn't have to wait for a full overhaul to realize its potential. Whether you've got a few weekends or just a couple of afternoons, projects like adding a pollinator garden, putting up a green privacy screen, or installing a raised herb bed can turn a lackluster space into one that shines.

These easy additions will add so much to your home's resale value.

05/19/2026

You've got the keys to your new house. Now what?

Before you dive into big renovation dreams, there are a handful of smaller, foundational repairs that could be worth tackling first. Fixing a drafty door seal, patching minor drywall damage, and checking smoke detector batteries aren't glamorous, but they're the kind of tasks that help protect your investment from day one.

Owning a home is a milestone that brings plenty of joy. Many people focus on painting rooms or buying furniture during the first week. It is better to look...

05/19/2026

Good stuff to know if you own real estate.

Our complimentary events are located at Polk State College Lakeland Campus.

05/17/2026

It has officially started- cooking one box of Mac and Cheese doesn’t do the trick anymore! We have progressed to two. Lawd help me, send referrals, growing grown ass men over here!

05/14/2026

05/12/2026

The water heater goes out in the middle of a shower. The roof starts leaking while you're out of town. Your kid practices their curveball… and your front window ends up being the catcher.

Homeownership is full of surprise repairs, but these four tips can help you plan ahead so you're not scrambling to cover the cost at the worst possible time.

How to be financially ready for costly household emergencies.