When you started thinking about putting your house up for sale, you probably made a list of repairs that need to be done ahead of time. If that list was long, you might be at a point where you're asking if it's all worth it. Will prospective buyers really notice the little things? And even if they do, will that affect how much you're able to get for your home? You Can Sell An Imperfect House Your house doesn't need to be perfect in order to sell it. Many older homes have some issues like outdated kitchens and bathrooms or wall-to-wall carpeting that needs to be replaced or gotten rid of. But … [Read More...]
Last week's economic news brought good news to U.S. consumers on several fronts. Mortgage rates fell and national unemployment fell to its lowest rate in 50 years. Inflation slowed and the Federal Reserve held its target federal funds rate steady. Freddie Mac analysts credited strong labor markets, high consumer confidence and falling mortgage rates as factors setting the stage for more home sales. Pending Home Sales Rise as Construction Spending Falls The National Association of Realtors® reported higher pending home sales in March; home sales under contract but not completed rose 3.89 … [Read More...]
Most consumers believe if they pay their bills on time, they need not worry about their credit score. Oftentimes, it is a rude awakening when they apply for a mortgage loan, car loan, or any revolving credit to learn they are not going to get the lowest rates available due to their credit score. This is because paying bills on time only accounts for 35 percent of your credit score. The remaining 65 percent is spread out among other factors that impact your credit score. Credit Usage And Impact On Score Nearly one-third, 30 percent, of your credit score is based on how much of your available … [Read More...]
The meeting of the Federal Reserve's Federal Open Market Committee ended Wednesday with the Committee's customary post-meeting statement recapping monetary policy matters considered by the Committee. Members voted not to change the current target rate range of the federal funds rate. The current rate range of 2.25 percent to 2.50 percent. Federal Funds Target Rate Range: Monetary Policymakers Remain "Patient" FOMC members cited low inflation pressures, global and domestic economic and financial developments as supporting the Committee's decision to leave the Federal funds rate unchanged … [Read More...]
No doubt you've been told that curb appeal will help sell your home. But if money is short you'll need to do some curb appeal on a budget tricks. Following are some inexpensive curb appeal tips that really work. Fresh Coat Of Paint A fresh coat of paint adds curb appeal without busting the budget. With a gallon of paint you can freshen up the window ledges, shutters, front door and the garage door. Add a fresh coat of paint to decks and railings, and street lampposts, as well. Solar Lighting You can find inexpensive solar lighting stakes at discount stores around the country. Add these … [Read More...]
Houses for a dollar. Millions (perhaps billions) in tax incentives. Reclaiming contaminated land. Partnering with Walmart to build town centers. What do all of these things have in common? They are examples of exciting redevelopment opportunities in different parts of America. HUD Dollar Homes The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers homes for $1. Local governments may purchase them if they listed for sale without finding a buyer for six months. HUD acquired these homes through foreclosures. The local governments purchase the homes for $1 so that they can fix them up … [Read More...]
