Wednesday’s post-meeting statement of the Federal Reserves Federal Open Market Committee reaffirmed its concern over the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the economy and health of all Americans. The Committee voted to hold its benchmark target federal funds range at 0.00 percent to 0.25 percent. Analysts do not expect the Fed to raise its key interest rate more than once in the next three years. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said that the sharp increase in Covid-19 cases in mid-June kept the economy from recovering after the virus pandemic caused a historic plunge in the U.S. … [Read More...]
For many people, their home is the most important investment they will ever make. Therefore, it only makes sense that people will want to spend time improving their house. Sometimes, they simply want to make a nicer place to live. In other cases, they might be looking to raise the value of their home. Regardless, it is important for people to think about the power tools they are going to use to get the job done. The right tool could make the difference between a successful project and having to hire someone else. There are a few tools on the market that every homeowner should consider. A New … [Read More...]
If you're a homeowner, your backyard is probably a space where you look forward to spending private, quality time watching your children play or entertaining dinner guests. The privacy you and your family treasure could suddenly be put at risk if your neighbors finish renovations allowing them to see into your backyard, or if a tree that once hid your backyard from view needs to be removed. If you're looking to reclaim the privacy you've lost in your yard, here are some options you will want to consider. Your Property Line Is A Natural Barrier That You Can Use To Reclaim Your Family's Privacy … [Read More...]
If you are looking to buy a home one day but don’t think you are ready just yet, you are not alone. One of the most important tasks that you have to complete involves getting your finances in order. There are a few ways to get your finances in order before you buy, no matter how long you have been waiting to buy a home. Getting your finances in order with these simple steps can help you become a more competitive applicant both for a mortgage and a home that is on the market. Focus On Your Credit Score While it is true that your credit doesn’t have to be perfect in order to get a … [Read More...]
Last week’s economic reporting included readings on sales of new and previously owned homes. State and federal data on new and continuing jobless claims were released along with Freddie Mac’s weekly report on mortgage rates. Sales of New and Existing Homes Rise in June Sales of new homes rose at their highest rate in 13 years according to the Commerce Department. New homes sold at a seasonally-adjusted annual pace of 776,000 sales, which exceeded the expected reading of 710.000 new single-family homes sold and May’s reading of 682,000 new homes sold. Analysts said that … [Read More...]
When someone is thinking about buying a home, one of the key parts is the home appraisal. The appraisal ensures that the buyer is paying a fair price for the home while also protecting the mortgage lender against taking a loss. On the other hand, an appraisal is also an added cost of the buyer can be a serious source of stress for both sellers and brokers. Recently, government agencies have passed a rule saying that home appraisals are no longer going to be required on homes that are less than $400,000; however, many lenders will still require them. Therefore, when should someone consider … [Read More...]
