A combination of historically low mortgage rates and declines in home pricing are resulting in the most affordable home market in two decades. This is great news for home buyers, provided they are able to qualify for a loan. Stricter guidelines and qualifications may make getting a home loan more challenging, so potential home buyers…Read More »
Mortgage lenders are in the news again, only this time it’s not Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae in the hot seat. If you purchased a home through GMAC (now Ally Financial), Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, or Citibank, you may want to take note. Last week’s settlement of $25 billion is proposed to aid homeowners…Read More »
While the decline in new home construction may have some feeling “blue,” those of you who embrace a “green” lifestyle will be excited to hear about the latest projections. “Green” remodeling is a growing trend in the real estate industry! In fact, McGraw-Hill Companies, revealed last week that 17% of residential home building in 2011…Read More »
When you meet someone for the first time – what do you notice? If you’re like many of us, that initial impression is largely determined by outside appearance. Believe it or not, that concept rings true with your home, too! That’s right, your home can foreshadow clues regarding your personality and sense of style,…Read More »
Home ownership can be a heavy responsibility at times… especially when times are tough. It can be challenging to find help when times are difficult due to a decrease or loss of income, illness, unexpected disaster or home repairs, or personal crisis such as separation or divorce. Add to that a reduction in home values, and…Read More »
Valentines Day is fast approaching and love is in the air. Share a little extra love with your home for sale this week and you may find a buyer sooner than you thought! Buying a home is largely an emotional decision. Buyers may try to rationalize, set limits, make T-charts, and even compromise when searching…Read More »
Any major purchase requires analysis and thought, and home buying isn’t any different. Specifications on location, bedroom and bathroom quantity, and yard size may come more quickly to mind, but there are many other considerations to be aware of, as well. Did you know that you can compare prices on mortgage rates and lender options?…Read More »
While the holidays are a favorite time of year for millions, it’s definitely not their favorite time to buy a home. The housing market plunges between the months of November and January as people put turkey dinners, tinsel and trees on the top of their lists and house hunting on the bottom. However, if you really…Read More »
If you’re ready to start looking for your dream home, and you’ve narrowed your search to a few select neighborhoods, take these following tips to heart: 1. Types of homes. Choose the type of home that is the most appealing yet practical for you. In addition to single family homes, there are multifamily homes, condominiums…Read More »
If you ever watch any home buying or remodeling shows on satellite or cable TV, you know what kinds of secrets a home inspection can reveal about a seemingly-safe house! Home inspections are crucial before finalizing any real estate purchase. The purpose of a home inspection is to evaluate the physical condition of the home for sale and identify…Read More »