A number of economic reports released last week indicate mixed economic progress. The 20-City Home Price Index showed that August home prices rose, but New Home Sales dropped in September. The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve indicated that it may reserve the target federal funds range at its next meeting in December.
Buying in a New Community: How to Meet and Make Friends with Your New Neighbors
One of the stresses of moving to a new area is giving up the familiarity that you have with your old neighbors and starting from scratch. Whether you’ve just moved to a different locale or you’re planning to relocate in the near future, there are some easy ways that you can make a home of your new neighborhood right from the start.
Mortgages 101: How to Calculate How Much You Will Need for Your Down Payment
If you’re planning to buy a home in the near future, you’re probably already in the process of saving up for a down payment. But if you haven’t seen a mortgage advisor or started looking at properties yet, you probably don’t have a good idea of what a down payment will cost you.
Case-Shiller: August Home Prices Accelerate
According to the Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index, U.S. home prices increased by 0.40 percent in August, which boosted year-over-year home price growth to 5.10 percent. Denver, Colorado continued to lead in home price gains with a monthly increase of 0.90 percent and a year-over-year gain of 10.70 percent. San Francisco, California also posted a year-over-year gain of 10.70 percent, but posted a month-to-month loss of -0.10 percent. Portland, Oregon posted a year-over-year gain of 9.40 percent with a month-to-month gain of 1.10 percent.
Seller Stress: Ease the Stress of Selling Your Home with These Three Easy Tips
Despite all of the excitement that comes along with moving to a new area or home, it can also be a time of considerable stress. Whether you’re just getting prepared to put your house on the market or you’ve been up to bat for a while and are feeling the effects, here are some pointers for how you can keep your stress level low and your attitude positive.
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – October 26, 2015
Last week’s economic news included the National Association of Home Builders Index, Housing Starts and FHFA’s report on August home sales. The National Association of Realtors released its monthly report on sales of previously owned homes.
Sales of Pre-Owned Homes Hit Second Highest Level in 8 Years
Housing markets show continued strength as the National Association of Realtors reported that sales of existing homes reached their second highest level since February 2007. Sales of pre-owned homes increased by 4.70 percent and reached 5.55 million sales on a seasonally adjusted annual basis against analyst expectations of 5.34 million sales and Augustâs reading of 5.30 million sales of previously owned homes.
Squeezing a Seller: 3 Tips to Help Bring a Seller’s Price Down to Fit Your Budget
If you’ve been searching the real estate market for a while and you’ve finally come across a home that you love, itâs possible you may be ready to pounce at any price. However, if you’re hoping to bring the seller’s price down for a deal thatâs closer to what you want to spend, here are some ways you may be able to have your home and pay the right price too.
Can You Give a Relative a Gift of Cash for a Mortgage Down Payment? Yes – Here’s How
A new house is a major investment. Even if you have a mortgage, the bank and the seller will still expect a sizable down payment. That’s why lots of people regularly gift down payments to friends and relatives – it’s a great way to help young people start out on the path of home ownership.
Don’t Fear the Last Minute Home Showing – Here’s How You Can Impress Potential Buyers
The idea of impressing potential buyers can be a matter rife with stress, but there are a few things you can do before a viewing to ensure your home is seen in the best light. If you’ve recently put your house on the market and you’re looking for some fast and easy fix-ups, here are a handful of ways you can be sure to create a positive first impression.