Last week’s economic reports included readings from the National Association of Home Builders on housing markets and Commerce Department data on housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released. NAHB: Builder Confidence Slips as Materials Costs Rise The National Association of Home Builders reported that its Housing Market Index fell to an index reading of 82 in March as compared to February’s index reading of 84. Analysts forecasted a reading of 83. Builder concerns included rising materials costs and mortgage … [Read More...]
Organizing a home seems like a significant challenge. Fortunately, there are easier ways to make this happen. In less than an hour per day, it is possible to organize a home from top to bottom. Getting these unnecessary items out of the way might even prevent people from stubbing their toes! How can this be possible? Start Getting Rid Of Unnecessary Items Start by creating two boxes. The first box should have the word “donate” written on it. The second box should have the “trash” written on it. Then, go through every room in the home. Find items that can be … [Read More...]
Spring is around the corner, and it's time to get your home in order! Spring cleaning can be fun and easy if you follow some general guidelines, which are sure to get your home ready for the nice weather and looking as beautiful as the weather is about to. Kick the winter clutter to the curb with these spring cleaning tips. Start With The Closets Spring is here, and winter wear is no longer needed! It's time to box up all of the winter boots, jackets, gloves, and scarfs until next season. Starting your spring clean with your closets is a good tip, and will get you prepared for the rest of the … [Read More...]
Home inspections are a tense time for everyone. Sellers are passionately hoping that nothing major is wrong with their home that could hold up the transaction. Buyers are eager to hear that their new house is in prime condition. Whatever the wishes, one thing is for sure; any news from an inspector is usually bad news. Home inspectors have a tough job. They have to be trained to spot hundreds of potential issues with a home and be knowledgeable of local codes, community restrictions and residential permit parameters. Stay one step ahead of your home inspector by reading the list of common … [Read More...]
Listing a property is a delicate dance. From the initial marketing to the final price negotiations, everything needs to be tailored to the type of home being sold. However, because of their main differences, this process can look very different when selling a condo versus selling a house. Reason #1: The Homeowners Association or HOA As all condo owners will know very well, almost all condos come with some type of HOA, or homeowners association. The HOA generally handles common areas like swimming pools, the exterior of the building, and landscaping. Sometimes, the HOA is also responsible for … [Read More...]
Last week’s economic reporting included data on inflation and job openings, and weekly readings n mortgage rates, and jobless claims. Inflation Rate Rises in February Consumer prices grew by 0.40 percent in February according to the federal government’s Consumer Price Index; the year-over-year inflation rate rose from January’s reading of 1.40 percent to 1.70 percent. Consumer prices rose at their fastest pace in six months as rising fuel prices caused the jump in consumer prices. The Core Consumer Price Index, which does not include volatile food and fuel sectors, rose by … [Read More...]
