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What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 30, 2023

January 30, 2023 by James Scott

What's Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week - January 30, 2023Last week’s economic reporting included readings on new and pending home sales, inflation, and consumer sentiment. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released.

New home sales increase in December

The Commerce Department reported new home sales rose to a seasonally-adjusted annual pace of 616,000 sales in December as compared to the expected pace of 615,000  new homes sales and November’s revised reading of 602,000 annual sales. December was the third consecutive month that the pace of new home sales rose, but new home sales remained well below the 1.04 million sales peak reported in August 2020.

Pending home sales rose by 2.5 percent in December, which outpaced expectations of a one percent decrease in pending sales and November’s seasonally-adjusted annual decrease of  -2.6 percent in pending home sales. New home sales are 26.6 percent lower than they were one year ago.

Month-to-month inflation slows in December

The Commerce Department reported that month-to-month inflation rose by 0.1 percent in  December, which matched November’s month-to-month reading. Core inflation rose by 0.1 percent in December to 0.3 percent and matched analyst expectations. Core inflation readings exclude volatile food and fuel sectors that comprise major expenses for many U.S. households.

Year-over-year inflation rose by 5.0 percent in December as compared to November’s pace of 5.5 percent. Core inflation rose  4.4 percent in December, which matched analyst expectations, but fell short of November’s year-over-year reading of 4.7 percent for core inflation.

Mortgage rates, initial jobless claims fall

Freddie Mac reported lower average mortgage rates last week as the rate for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages fell by two basis points to 6.13 percent. The average rate for 15-year fixed-rate mortgages fell by 11 basis points to 5.17 percent.

First-time jobless claims fell to 186,000 filings as compared to the expected reading of 205,000 initial jobless claims and the previous week’s reading of 192,000 new jobless claims filed. Continuing jobless claims rose to 1.68 million ongoing claims as compared to the previous week’s reading of 1.66 million continuing jobless claims filed.

Consumer sentiment strengthens in January

The University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index rose to an index reading of 64.9 in January, which surpassed the expected reading of 64.6 and December’s final index reading of 64.6. Readings over 50 indicate that a majority of consumers surveyed have a positive outlook on the economy. Falling gasoline prices contributed to an improved consumer outlook, but grocery prices remained high.

What’s ahead

This week’s scheduled economic reporting includes readings on U.S. home prices, The Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s scheduled press conference. Labor-sector reports on job growth and the national unemployment rate will also be released.

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Case-Shiller, Financial Report, Jobless Claims

VA Loans: Are They Assumable?

January 27, 2023 by James Scott

VA Loans: Are They Assumable?Members of the military, their family members, and veterans have access to a unique mortgage option called a VA loan. This can be a strong option because it provides borrowers with an opportunity to purchase a house for less than 20 percent down. While not everyone is eligible for a VA loan, there are a lot of people who are wondering, are VA loans assumable? There are a few key points to keep in mind.

What Is An Assumable Loan?

An assumable loan means that the buyer is essentially going to take over the mortgage held by the seller. Essentially, this means that the buyer is going to take over the remaining balance of the loan as well as the interest rate attached to that loan. The buyer will have to compensate the seller for any equity the seller has already accumulated. This means either providing the seller with cash for his or her equity or taking out a second mortgage to cover the difference. The biggest advantage of assuming a loan is that you may be able to secure a lower interest rate than you would in the current market. 

Who Can Assume A VA Loan?

The great news is that a VA mortgage loan is assumable. Even though a VA loan is only available to retired service members, active service members, and members of their immediate families, anyone the lender qualifies to take over the loan can assume it. In general, this means that the buyer needs to have a credit score of at least 580 and a debt-to-income ratio of 45 percent. The buyer and seller must also have at least 12 months without any missed payments. Finally, the person assuming the loan must also occupy the property and the buyer must be willing to take over the terms of the original loan.

Should I Assume A VA Loan?

Assuming a VA loan could be right for you because you can access a lower interest rate and potentially save thousands of dollars on closing costs and expenses if you do not have to take out a second mortgage. On the other hand, this also means that you might need to put more money down to compensate the seller for his or her equity. 

 

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Assumable, Real Estate, VA Loans

The Cost Of Building A House

January 26, 2023 by James Scott

The Cost Of Building A HouseAre you in the market for a new house? If so, you might be thinking about building your own house. It can be exciting to go through the process of building a house, as you will be in control of just about everything. On the other hand, how much is it going to cost you to build a house? You need to make sure you have an estimate before you decide to move forward with your project. 

What Is The Actual Cost Of Building A House?

First, it is important to go through the actual itemized list line by line. You will need to purchase land if you are interested in building a house. Then, you need to lay the foundation. The price of all of these options is going to vary depending on your location and the square footage of your foundation overall. 

You will also have to go through the process of framing your house, and you will need to put a roof on your house. Then, you will need to purchase appliances, utilities, and various finishes and fixtures along the way. Remember that you will also have to apply for permits from the city.

What About Financing A New Build?

If you are building your house, you still have the option to take out a mortgage; however, you need to specify when the interest rate on your construction loan is locked in. It will be a process to finish the house, and interest rates could change during the course of the construction. The mortgage company will want to start earning interest as soon as possible, so you will need to negotiate both with the lender and the construction company to ensure you understand the terms.

You will also have to go through the same vetting process as you would for any other mortgage. You need to make sure you have favorable credit, enough income to cover your housing payments, a low debt-to-income ratio, and a sizable down payment. If you are interested in building your house, you will probably be required to put 20 percent down, but if you are willing to put more money down, you may be able to qualify for a lower interest rate. 

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Construction, New Home, Real Estate

Curious About Homeowners’ Association (HOA) Fees? Here’s What You Need to Know

January 25, 2023 by James Scott

Curious About Homeowners' Association (HOA) Fees? Here's What You Need to KnowIf you are thinking of buying a condominium or a home that is part of a planned community, you have likely come across the term “homeowners’ association” or HOA. In short, the HOA is a coalition of local homeowners who have banded together to manage the needs of the local community. Let’s explore the concept of the homeowners’ association, why they charge fees and what you can expect from your HOA if you buy a home that is part of one.

HOA Fees Are Meant To Make Things Easier

HOA fees are meant to make your life easier. Common sense dictates that all homeowners won’t be able to commit to investing some of their time in community upkeep. So the HOA charges a monthly fee to everyone to cover the costs of keeping everything in order. Of course, some HOAs can make mistakes or foolish investments that don’t benefit all equally. But most are well-intended and do positive work.

What Do HOA Fees Cover?

Your HOA fees will be used to pay for needs that benefit all homeowners’ in the community. If you live in a building, this will be everything from elevator maintenance to keeping the doors in good order. If you live in a townhouse complex or planned community, this includes landscaping, gardening, road maintenance and more. As long as your HOA leaders are doing their job, they will use fees to maintain and improve the community for everyone.

Some Pros And Cons Of HOA Fees

The main benefit of paying HOA fees is that you are offloading your share of the responsibility for building or community upkeep. In essence, you are trading a monthly payment so that you don’t have to vacuum the common areas, change the light bulbs or worry about repairing the gate when it breaks. The main downside to paying HOA fees is that you only have a single vote as to how they are spent and you may disagree with other homeowners about the HOA’s priorities.

All things considered, whether or not you have a favorable view of your HOA generally comes down to you. If you are the type that likes to share their opinion and is willing to commit the time to improve your local community, you may want to join your HOA. However, if you are less interested in having someone spend your money, you might disagree with their approach. Whatever the case, when you are ready to buy or sell your next home, contact a professional to help you find the right home – HOA or not and mortgage.

Filed Under: Home Buyer Tips Tagged With: Buying A Home, Home Buyer Tips, Real Estate Tips

Should You Sell Or Rent Your Primary Residence

January 24, 2023 by James Scott

Should You Sell Or Rent Your Primary Residence Are you interested in purchasing a rental property? Instead of buying a new one, you might want to convert your primary residence into a rental property, particularly if you plan on moving in the near future. At the same time, you might think it is better to sell the property and take the cash instead. Which option is best for you?

Potential Issues Converting Your Primary Residence To A Rental Property

If you want to convert your primary residence into a rental property, there are a few important issues to keep in mind. First, you must make sure you have lived in the home long enough to qualify for beneficial mortgage rates. Because the property is your primary residence, you probably received a lower interest rate. Check your mortgage contract and make sure you have lived in the property long enough to convert it to a rental property. You don’t want to be accused of mortgage fraud.

Also, remember that your real estate taxes might go up if you convert your primary residence into a rental property. You qualify for lower real estate taxes if you live in the home you own. Once the government realizes you no longer live there, your real estate taxes could rise. 

The Benefits Of Converting It To A Rental Property

If you can navigate these issues, there are a few benefits to converting your primary residence to a rental property. For example, you will have an additional, reliable stream of passive income that you might be able to use to qualify for your next mortgage. Furthermore, the amount of money you may charge for rent could go up over time.

You can hold the property for a longer amount of time, so you will enjoy additional capital appreciation. That means if you wait longer to sell the property, you should get more money for it. 

Think About Your Choices Carefully

You should think carefully about whether you want to sell your primary residence or convert it to a rental property. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, and you need to think about which choice is best for your needs. Do not hesitate to reach out to an expert who can help you. 

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Investment, Primary Residence, Real Estate

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 23, 2023

January 23, 2023 by James Scott

What's Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week - January 23, 2023

Last week’s economic reporting included readings from the National Association of Home Builders on U.S. housing markets, and Commerce Department data on housing starts and building permits issued. The National Association of Realtors® reported sales of previously owned homes, and weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released.

NAHB: Homebuilder Sentiment Rises in December

The National Association of Home Builders reported increased homebuilder confidence in U.S. housing market conditions in December; this was the first time in 12 months that homebuilder confidence rose. Builder confidence in current housing market conditions rose by four points; builder confidence in home sales conditions over the next six months increased by two points. Builder confidence in prospective buyer traffic in new housing developments rose by three points.

Jerry Konter, a Georgia home builder and chairman of NAHB, said: “It appears that the low point for building sent in this cycle was registered in December, even as many builders continue to use a variety of incentives including price reductions to bolster sales.  The rise in builder sentiment also means that cycle lows for permits and starts are likely near, and a rebound for homebuilding could be underway later in 2023.”

Robert Dietz, the NAHB’s chief economist, predicted that single-family home building will increase as mortgage rates are expected to trend lower and boost housing affordability. Mr. Dietz said, “Improved housing affordability will increase housing demand as the nation grapples with a structural housing deficit of 1.5 million units.”

Mortgage Rates, New Jobless Claims Fall

Freddie Mac reported lower mortgage rates last week as the average rate for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages fell by 18 basis points to 6.15 percent. Rates for 15-year fixed-rate mortgages averaged 5.28 percent and were 24 basis points lower on average.

First-time jobless claims fell to 190,000 claims filed as compared to expectations of 215,000 initial claims filed and the previous week’s reading of 205,000 new jobless claims filed. Ongoing jobless claims increased to 1.65 million claims filed compared to the previous week’s reading of 1.63 million continuing jobless claims.

What’s Ahead

This week’s scheduled economic reporting includes readings on new and pending home sales, consumer sentiment, and predictions on inflation. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims will also be published. 

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Financial Report, Jobless Claims, Mortgage Rates

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James Scott

James Scott

Broker Associate/Team Leader
Call 832.969.2391
james.scott@remax-allstars.com

USN Veteran, BPOR, E-PRO, MRP, TAHS
RE Lic #0567537

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