Last week’s scheduled economic reports included readings on housing starts, existing home sales, and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s congressional testimony. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released. National Home Builders Association Releases June Housing Market Index U.S. home builder confidence rose by five points to an index reading of 55 in June according to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index. The June reading surpassed the expected reading of 51 and May’s housing market index reading of 50. … [Read More...]
Living in an urban setting often means compromising on outdoor space. However, even the tiniest of balconies or patios can be transformed into inviting and functional outdoor retreats. With a bit of creativity and thoughtful planning, you can maximize your small outdoor space and create a beautiful oasis right outside your doorstep. Choose the Right Furniture: When it comes to small outdoor spaces, selecting the right furniture is crucial. Pieces that are compact, lightweight, and multi-functional. Along with folding chairs, stackable stools, and collapsible tables are excellent choices as … [Read More...]
Buying a new home is an exciting and significant milestone in anyone's life. However, it's essential to approach the homebuying process with caution and thoroughness to ensure that you're making a sound investment. One crucial step in the homebuying journey is the home inspection. A home inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a property's condition, aiming to uncover any potential issues or concerns that could affect its value or safety. Below are some tips to remember when navigating a home inspection. Roof and Exterior: The roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements, … [Read More...]
The bathroom is one of the most important and frequently used spaces in a home. Over time, it may start to show signs of wear and tear or become outdated. If you're considering renovating your bathroom, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to tackle the project yourself or hire a professional. Both options have their pros and cons, and it's essential to weigh them carefully before deciding. DIY Renovation: One of the most significant advantages of a DIY bathroom renovation is the potential cost savings. By doing the work yourself, you eliminate the labor costs associated with … [Read More...]
Last week’s scheduled economic reports included readings on inflation, the Fed’s Federal Open Market Committee meeting, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s press conference. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also published. Fed Leaves Key Rate Range Unchanged Federal Reserve policymakers left the Fed’s current interest rate range unchanged at 5.00 to 5.25 percent; the Fed decision was announced after a scheduled meeting of the Fed’s Open Market Committee ended on Wednesday. Factors contributing to the FOMC policymakers’ decision … [Read More...]
One of the stresses of moving to a new area is giving up the familiarity that you have with your old neighbors and starting from scratch. Whether you've just moved to a different locale or you're planning to relocate in the near future, there are some easy ways that you can make a home of your new neighborhood right from the start. Stand Up and Smile While there are neighborhoods where people are definitely friendlier than others, by making your presence positively known you can make an instant impression on those that live around you. When you're walking around the neighborhood, make sure you … [Read More...]
