Housing news was boosted by the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index, which posted its highest readings since July of 2002. In other news, the Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee voted to raise the federal funds rate and Fed Chair Janet Yellen gave a press conference. Mortgage rates rose and weekly jobless […]
Archives: December 2016
Selling Your Home in 2017? Here are the Latest Market Predictions
It’s that time of year: Many homeowners are looking to the New Year and planning their 2017 real estate resolutions (sell the house, move to the suburbs, buy that dream vacation home, etc.). If you’re planning your own New Year’s real estate resolutions, you might be researching 2017 housing market predictions to figure out when […]
Making the Grade: How to Research Local Schools Before Buying Your Next Home
There are so many things involved in moving into a new home in a different neighborhood that it can be easy to forget about the proximity of many nearby amenities. However, if you have children, the local schools available can make-or-break the decision on whether or not to invest in a house. If you’re wondering […]
5 Major Red Flags to Watch for When You’re Touring an Open House
An open house is one of the best opportunities a potential homeowner will have to take stock of a home and determine if it will work for them. However, it can also be a good opportunity to discover some glaring red flags that might make it a less worthwhile investment. If you’re currently perusing the […]
Five Ways to Make Your Home’s ‘Curb Appeal’ Better Than Your Neighbors’
Curb appeal, or how your home looks from the street, is an essential part of preparing to sell your house. It’s also where comparison with your neighbors’ homes is inescapable which poses a problem if you’re both on the market. Read on for five ways to boost your own curb appeal. Open Up: Garage Doors […]
3 Easy Ways to Make Your Home More ‘Pet Friendly’
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 12, 2016
As 2017 winds down, analysts are forecasting economic developments for 2017. Forbes identified three indicators that the U.S. housing market has recovered. Mortgage rates rose again last week; jobless claims fell and consumer sentiment jumped rose five points. The details: Housing Market Recovery Complete: Forbes Three conditions were cited by Forbes as evidence that the […]
Should You Pay Your Mortgage Bi-weekly or Monthly? Let’s Take a Look
Most homeowners look at their monthly mortgage payment as their largest cost per month, and something they must do to maintain a good credit history. However, you may have heard of bi-weekly mortgage payments and their ability to lower your debt load and help you pay off your mortgage more quickly. If you’re wondering if […]
4 Common Problems Home Sellers May Try to Hide
It’s easy for buyers to fall in love with properties when they’re looking at polished hardwood floors, new appliances or renovated kitchens. During open houses and showings, glamorous features get all the attention. However, these dream homes right away can be dangerous. Asbestos and electrical wiring are hard to get excited about, but ignoring them […]
Winter’s Coming: Learn How to Prepare Your Plants, Trees and Other Landscaping
From the approaching holiday season to the New Year, there are a lot of things to prepare for when it comes to the winter. It’s important, though, not to forget about the needs of your lawn for the upcoming cold season. If you’re wondering how to ready your trees, your plants and your landscape design, […]