There are different methods that home buyers may use to find a real estate agent to work with. While some may use the services of a real estate agent who they know personally, others may reach out to a professional who they have located online. Regardless of whether you previously knew the individual in a non-professional setting or not, it is important that you check your agent's reference and testimonials before you get started with the home buying process. There are several good reasons for this. The Importance Of Accessibility Whether you are trying to find the perfect property and submit … [Read More...]
Due to recent changes in federal regulations, consumers are now allowed to freeze their credit free of charge. Prior to changes in these regulations, credit bureaus would charge consumers for freezing their credit. What does this mean, and why might someone want to do this? Freezing Credit Restricts Access To Confidential Information There are certain situations where consumers may need to have access to their credit reports. For example, they may be applying for a home loan or a car loan. There are other situations where consumers may not need access to their credit reports for an extended … [Read More...]
Last week’s economic news included readings on home prices from Case-Shiller; readings on construction spending and pending home sales were also released. Weekly data on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released. Case-Shiller Posts New Record for Home Price Growth in June U.S. home prices continued to gain at record levels in June according to S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Indices. The National Home Price Index rose from May’s seasonally adjusted annual reading of 16.80 percent growth to 18.60 percent year-over-year home price growth in June. Case-Shiller’s … [Read More...]
It is critical for everyone to find a home that is right for them. Given the current lack of inventory, this can be a significant challenge. Fortunately, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) keeps track of numerous market aspects, including how long the average family stays in a home. For the past few decades, the average family has stayed in their home for approximately six years; however, during the past few years, that average has gone up to nine years. This means that the average homeowner is keeping his or her house longer than he or she did in the past. Why is this happening? Why … [Read More...]
There are many people who purchase a home with a target monthly payment in mind. This monthly payment usually includes major expenses such as the monthly mortgage payment, real estate taxes, and homeowners’ insurance. At the same time, there are other costs as well, such as home repairs and maintenance. In general, homeowners should budget between one and three percent of the home’s value every year to cover typical maintenance and repairs. This does not include renovation expenses, which might require additional funding. What are a few examples of maintenance expenses homeowners … [Read More...]
S&P Case Shiller Home Price Indices reported new record gains for home prices in June. The National Home Price Index rose by a seasonally-adjusted annual pace of 18.60 percent as compared to May’s home price increase rate of 16.80 percent. Home prices were 41 percent higher than they were during the 2006 housing boom; home price growth was driven by high demand for homes coupled with short supplies of homes for sale. 20-City Home Price Index Posts Month-to-Month Home Price Gain of 2 Percent The S&P Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index posted a two percent gain in June as … [Read More...]
