There are many unsubstantiated theories as to why home values are continuing to increase. From those who are worried that lending standards are again becoming too lenient (data shows this is untrue), to those who are concerned that prices are again approaching boom peaks because of “irrational exuberance” (this is also untrue as prices are not at peak […]
Archives: April 2018
Home Remodeling Myths the Fixer-Upper Shows Have Sold Us
I’m going to come right out and say it. Those “fixer-upper” shows on TV that we all love? Fake, fake, fake…and did I mention they’re fake? I apologize for bursting anyone’s bubble. Don’t get me wrong…I love me some Chip and Joanna Gaines (of “Fixer Upper” fame)…from a design perspective. But as an experienced Realtor […]
Existing Home Sales Grow Despite Low Inventory [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some Highlights: According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors, sales grew 1.1% in March to an annual pace of 5.60 million. This is the strongest pace since November of 2017. Inventory levels dropped year-over-year for the 34th consecutive month and are now 7.2% lower than March 2017 levels, […]
“Short of a war or stock market crash…”
This month, Arch Mortgage Insurance released their spring Housing and Mortgage Market Review. The report explained that an increase in mortgage rates and/or home prices would impact monthly payments this way: A 5% increase in home prices increases payments by roughly 5% A 1% rise in interest rates increases payments by roughly 13% or 14% […]
New Study Shows ‘Best States for Millennials’
A new study by WalletHub used “30 key metrics, ranging from share of millennials to millennial unemployment rate to millennial voter-turnout rate” to find out which states are the ‘Best States for Millennials.’ The Top 5 Best States for Millennials are: Washington, D.C. (also ranks highest in percentage of millennials already living there!) North Dakota […]
Thinking of Selling Your Home? Why You Need A Pro in Your Corner
With home prices on the rise and buyer demand strong, some sellers may be tempted to try and sell their homes on their own (FSBO) without using the services of a real estate professional. Real estate agents are trained and experienced in negotiation and, in most cases, the seller is not. Sellers must realize that […]
Buying a Home Is Cheaper Than Renting in the Majority of the US
The results of the 2018 Rental Affordability Report from ATTOM show that buying a median-priced home is more affordable than renting a three-bedroom property in 54% of U.S. counties analyzed for the report. The updated numbers show that renting a three-bedroom property in the United States requires an average of 38.8% of income. The least affordable market for […]
Home Buying Myths Slayed [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some Highlights: The average down payment for first-time homebuyers is only 6%! Despite mortgage interest rates being over 4%, rates are still below historic numbers. 88% of property managers raised their rents in the last 12 months! The credit score requirements for mortgage approval continue to fall.
The 10-Year Fix: Important Home Improvements
Image courtesy of Mohawk Flooring Once your home hits the 10-year mark, it’s probably time for some home improvements. This is true whether the home itself is now 10 years old or you’ve been in your current home (of any age) for 10 years. Nine Important Home Improvements to Make Every Decade Here are nine […]
Is Family Mortgage Debt Out of Control?
Some homeowners have recently done a “cash out” refinance and have taken a portion of their increased equity from their house. Others have sold their homes and purchased more expensive homes with larger mortgages. At the same time, first-time buyers have become homeowners and now have mortgage payments for the first time. These developments have […]