18
Feb
By Todd Grey
Financial Reports, ,

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week -February 18th, 2020

Last week’s economic reporting included releases on inflation, retail sales, and consumer sentiment. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also released. Inflation Hits Highest Growth Pace Since 2018 Consumer staples including rent, prepared food and medical expenses caused inflation to rise 0.10 percent from December to January, which was the smallest month-to-month growth in four months. Rents drove month-to-month inflation with a growth rate of  0.40 percent. Year-over-year inflation grew from 2.30 percent to 2.50 percent, which was the highest year-over-year growth rate since Fall 2018. Analysts said that inflation remained low according to historical data…
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14
Feb
By Todd Grey
Real Estate, ,

Home Improvements That May Improve Resale Value

Did you know that some home improvements lower the resale value of a home and decrease the number of potential buyers? If you are going to repaint the exterior of your home bright, traffic-cone orange and try to sell it for a high price, think again! Maybe, if the artist Pablo Picasso once lived there that might work, but probably not under any other circumstances. Some things are counter-intuitive. A swimming pool is an example. Swimming pools are great and highly desirable for many people. However, others do not necessarily think so and only see them as adding unnecessary expenses…
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13
Feb
By Todd Grey
Real Estate, ,

Common Problems Faced By New Homeowners

Buying a new home is a big step for individuals and families. This is a time for celebration as the new furniture gets moved in, everyone gets adjusted, and the honeymoon phase starts with the new home. On the other hand, buying a home also means that all of the responsibilities rest with the owners. Here are a few common problems that new homeowners face. Taking Care Of The Outside Many homeowners are quick to realize that there is a tremendous amount of maintenance on the outside of the home. Now, the exterior is their responsibility and doesn't fall on a…
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12
Feb
By Todd Grey
Real Estate, ,

The Impact Of The New Housing Construction Boom

New housing construction starts reached a record high in December 2019 going up 16.9%. This represents a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 1.608 million homes last December, which beat the record set in December 2006, 13 years ago, according to CNBC. This was surprising news, as predictions made before the end of the year were that housing starts in December would reach only 1.375 million homes. Experts say the current housing construction boom in the United States gets its support from the easy mortgage financing available and positive consumer expectations about the economy. What Does The New Housing Boom Mean To…
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11
Feb
By Todd Grey
Mortgage, ,

Considering A Reverse Mortgage? Understand These Important Points First

There are many individuals who end up on a fixed income once they reach a certain age; however, their expenses aren’t always fixed. Sometimes, there is a large medical expense. In other cases, someone might need money for a new car or a home repair. In the event that someone needs cash quickly, one option is called a reverse mortgage. Those who have equity built up in their home can draw upon this to help with unexpected expenses. This is a quick source of cash that many people overlook. At the same time, it is important to think about the…
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