Some Highlights: With interest rates still around 4.5%, now is a great time to look back at where rates have been over the last 40 years. Rates are projected to climb to 5.1% by this time next year according to Freddie Mac. The impact your interest rate makes on your monthly mortgage cost is significant!
Tag: homeownership
Homes are More Affordable in 44 out of 50 States
With both home prices and mortgage rates increasing this year, many are concerned about a family’s ability to purchase a major part of the American Dream – its own home. However, if we compare housing affordability today to the average affordability prior to the housing boom and bust, we are in much better shape than
Top 4 Renovations for Maximum Return
Some Highlights: Whether you are selling your home, just purchased your first home or are a homeowner planning to stay put for a while, there is value in knowing which home improvement projects will net you the most Return On Investment (ROI). Minor bathroom renovations can go a long way toward improving the quality of
Top Landscaping Trends for 2018
Native plants, outdoor yoga spaces, and charging stations are among the hottest landscaping trends growing in consumer demand for 2018, according to a new report released by the American Society of Landscape Architects. Landscape architects were asked to rate the popularity of several residential outdoor design elements. Landscape architects noted a growth in the use
June is National Homeownership Month!
Some Highlights: June is National Homeownership Month Stability and Comfort lead to Happiness! Now is a great time to reflect on the many benefits of homeownership that go way beyond the financial. What reasons do you have to own your own home?
Selling Your House on Your Own Could Cost You
In this extremely hot real estate market, some homeowners might consider selling their homes on their own which is known as a For Sale by Owner (FSBO). They rationalize that they don’t need a real estate agent and believe that they can save the fee for the services a real estate agent offers. However, a
Home Sales Grow Despite Low Inventory
Some Highlights: According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors, sales grew 1.1% in March to an annual pace of 5.60 million. This is the strongest pace since November of 2017. Inventory levels dropped year-over-year for the 34th consecutive month and are now 7.2% lower than March 2017 levels,
Find the Best Agent to Sell Your House
Ask detailed questions about their experience and skills to help you find the right agent for your home sale. Working with the right real estate agent can mean the difference between getting prompt, expert representation and feeling like you’re going it alone when selling your home. Here are 10 questions to ask when you’re interviewing
Home Buying Myths Slayed
Some Highlights: The average down payment for first-time homebuyers is only 6%! Despite mortgage interest rates being over 4%, rates are still below historic numbers. 88% of property managers raised their rents in the last 12 months! The credit score requirements for mortgage approval continue to fall.
The Home Inspection: 5 Mistakes Made by Buyers and Sellers
1. Not Researching the Inspector “The inspection is only as good as the inspector doing it,” says Troy Bloxom, past president of the National Association of Home Inspectors. Always do your research to find a certified, experienced inspector that you feel confident will do a thorough job. 2. Not Attending the Inspection “If they don’t
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