16
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Housing Market, ,

Just How Sustainable Is The Micro Housing Trend?

Something that the Europeans have been doing for decades has finally made its way over the Atlantic Ocean to North America: the trend is called micro housing, and it's turned into an entirely new way of living. With micro housing, we're beginning to do away with oversize condos and even detached homes, learning to live in a more minimalistic manner and curbing our hoarding habits for good. The affordability of micro housing is making it possible even for young adults and students to purchase their homes in the city centers across North America. But one must ask, is the micro…
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15
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Homebuyer Tips, ,

The Ultimate Guide To Winning At Auction! Don’t Let Your Dream Home Slip Away

While the traditional method of trawling for sale listings, making bids, and negotiating with the seller has been a popular rite of passage for many home buyers, buying a house at auction is swiftly becoming a favored way to purchase property. Buying a home through auction can be tricky, so it's best to do your research and keep your cool on auction day, lest you find yourself stuck with a less-than-ideal place to live for a price you didn't expect to pay. If you're in the market to buy through auction for the first time, here are some things you…
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14
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage Rates, ,

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 14, 2014

While little housing-related news was released, last week's economic news showed signs of a brighter economic picture. Labor statistics were stronger, with job openings up and new jobless claims filed lower than expected. Mortgage rates fell, and the University of Michigan's Consumer Sentiment Index was higher than expected. More Jobs Available, Fewer New Jobless Claims The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that February job openings rose to 4.20 million, which exceeded January's reading of 3.9 million jobs. New jobless claims were lower than expected with 300,000 new jobless claims filed against expectations of 316,000 new jobless claims and the…
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11
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Around The Home, ,

Green Living: Water Saving Tips For Spring

Water is the planet's most precious resource. Access to clean water is a privilege that, unfortunately, many people still take for granted. By utilizing new water efficiency technologies and age-old conservation methods, we can help preserve the water supply for future generations. Cutting down on consumption whenever possible is something that everyone can do to live a little greener. Making Sure Your Home Holds Water The first stop on your journey to save water is to ensure your home is free of water leaks. Make your way through your home, and properly shut off the water at all fixtures and…
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10
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

The Happenings In A Reverse Mortgage

When you're looking for ways to supplement your retirement income, there are a number of different options to consider. A reverse mortgage is becoming a more popular and more common way to provide income when your retirement savings don't leave enough to live on. But with all the information out there, how do you know what happens in a reverse mortgage and whether it's a good option for you? What Is A Reverse Mortgage? A reverse mortgage essentially reverses the typical actions of a mortgage. Instead of making payments on your home, you receive payments against your home's equity. The…
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09
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

4 Of The Best Questions To Ask Before Refinancing Your Mortgage

1) Do I Have Enough Equity To Get A Mortgage? To get a conventional loan, you will usually need to have at least 20 percent equity. This means that your house will have to be worth at least $250,000 to get a $200,000 loan. If you have less equity, you could end up having to pay for private mortgage insurance, which can easily add $100 or more to your monthly payment. 2) How's My Credit? Most lenders will look at your credit score as a part of determining whether or not to make you a loan. With conventional lenders, your…
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