Author Archives:

Why A Buyer Needs An Independent Inspection At Closing

Many sellers hire inspectors and appraisers to value their home prior to placing it on the market. It’s important for buyers to hire their own inspector to get an independent opinion. If a buyer orders an inspection before the sale goes through, the seller may have to resolve any issues that arise. If you forego the inspection, you inherit any problems that come with the house.

4 Reasons Why Home Ownership Is Better Than Renting

Are you trying to decide if you should rent or buy? There are many reasons why home ownership is better than renting. Here are just a few to consider when you’re making your decision.

Case-Shiller: Home Price Growth Grinds to Lowest Rate in 2 Years

Home prices rose by 0.40 percent in October according to Case-Shiller’s 20-City Home Price Index and were unchanged from September’s year-over-year reading of 5.50 percent growth.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 31st, 2018

Last week’s economic reports included readings from Case-Shiller Housing Market Indices, National Association of Realtors(R) on pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

The Commerce Department’s reading on sales of new homes was delayed due to the federal government’s shutdown.

4 House “Flaws” You Can Safely Disregard

When you walk through a house with your real estate agent, you’re seeing if you and your family would be happy living there. But you’re also probably looking for signs of trouble that might spell big expenses later on. Be careful, though. It’s important to see the “bones” of the house rather than focusing on minor issues.

5 First Steps For New Homeowners

As a new homeowner, now is the time to take control and organize your house for safety and security. The following first five steps should be carried out in the first few weeks if possible.

FOMC Raises Key Rate, Forecasts 2 Rate Hikes in 2019

During its post-meeting statement, the Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve announced that its target range for the Fed’s key interest rate would increase one quarter percent to 2.25 to 2.50 percent. While this rate hike was not expected by the Executive branch, it met analyst expectations.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 24th, 2018

Last week’s economic news included readings from the National Association of Home Builders, Commerce Department readings on housing starts and National Association of Realtors(R) report on sales of previously-owned homes. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also released.

Top 5 Ways To Pick A High Quality Real Estate Agent

Your real estate agent can be the difference between a successful home buy and a bad purchase. Take a look at the characteristics of a good real estate agent and how you should vet your next partner in real estate.

6 Ways To Find the Right Neighborhood For Your Lifestyle

Choosing a neighborhood you live in is almost as important as the house you buy. The right neighborhood can make your house feel even more like a home. But how do you find the right neighborhood to shop for your next home?