Easy Landscaping Tips For Homeowners
Simple Ways To Add Appeal To Your Outdoors
A front or back yard upgrade doesn't have to be expensive. Applying these DIY ideas can add curb appeal to your home with little to no money spent.
• Clean and mow the edges of your lawn with a yard edger. This little touch gives a cleaner look and shows off footpaths and actual curbs.
• Add a few easy-to-maintain florals, like Hydrangeas and Black-Eyed Susans, to elevate curb appeal. A few pops of color is a simple way to improve your yard's appearance.
• A stone pathway is easy to create and is an attractive addition to your yard. Find a DIY kit at a craft store to make it a fun afternoon family activity.
• Update planters for a fresh, designer look—discount and secondhand stores are great places to find inexpensive sets.
• Your AC unit can be an eyesore, so consider using a cover to create a tidy, less industrial-looking backyard. Visit your local hardware store to discover their variety of covers, ranging from canvas to decorative panels.
• A water feature is beautiful but can get expensive to install and maintain. Consider, instead, using pebbles and river rocks to create a dry "water bed." You'll have the same flowy feel that water provides without the expense.
✅ Benefits of Contract Loan Processing for VA Loans
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Specialized VA Knowledge
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VA loans have unique requirements (COE, residual income, funding fee calculations, appraisal requirements).
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A contract processor experienced in VA loans can spot potential issues early and streamline the process.
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Cost Savings for Lenders
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No need to hire full-time staff; processors are paid per file.
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Helps smaller brokerages or lenders manage fluctuating loan volumes without carrying extra payroll.
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Faster Turn Times
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Contract processors often work remotely and are paid per closed file, so they’re incentivized to move loans quickly.
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They can push COE requests, follow up on VA appraisals, and ensure VA-specific forms (26-1880, 26-8923) are completed on time.
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Compliance & Accuracy
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VA has strict guidelines (e.g., allowable fees, seller concessions, and veteran protections).
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A skilled processor reduces risk of compliance errors that could lead to loan buybacks or funding delays.
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Scalability
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During high volume seasons (e.g., rate drops, PCS military moves), lenders can bring on extra processors quickly without long-term HR commitments.
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Reduced Loan Officer Burden
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Lets LOs focus on originating, networking, and serving clients while the processor handles gathering DD-214s, income docs, pest inspection reports (if required), and underwriting conditions.
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Improved Borrower Experience
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Veterans and active-duty borrowers often value clear communication and speed.
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A processor who knows the VA process can anticipate documentation needs and prevent last-minute surprises.
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👉 In short: Contract processors help lenders stay lean, compliant, and efficient, while ensuring veterans have a smoother experience.
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