Blog

24
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Housing Market

NAHB: Home Builder Confidence Drops in January

Homebuilder confidence in housing market conditions dipped two points in January; ongoing challenges including labor shortages and materials costs were cited by the National Association of Home Builders, which provides monthly readings on home builder sentiment. Three component readings of the Housing Market Index declined by one point each. Readings for current sales conditions, housing market conditions for the next six months and for buyer traffic within new single-family housing developments were 79, 78 and 54 respectively. Readings over 50 indicate positive builder sentiment. The reading for buyer traffic seldom exceeds 50. Current readings support continued builder confidence in current…
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23
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Shopping for a Mortgage? Don’t Make These Key Mistakes That Trip Up First-time Buyers

Are you ready to dive into the real estate market for the first time? Buying a new house, condo or apartment is an exciting experience that sets you on the path to building your net worth. However, if you are planning to take out a mortgage, you should be aware that there are some potential pitfalls to avoid. Let's explore a few of the key mistakes that first-time homebuyers make when they are shopping around for a mortgage. Mistake #1: Trying To Rush The Process The first mistake that you will want to avoid making is trying to rush the…
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22
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage Rates

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 22, 2018

Last week's economic news included readings on home builder confidence, housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released; the week wrapped with the University of Michigan's report on consumer sentiment. Home Builder Confidence Dips, Remains in Positive Territory According to the National Association of Home Builders, builder confidence dropped two points in January to 72, but high demand for homes continued to provide builders with positive outlooks on housing market conditions. While continued concerns over labor and lot shortages were cited, home builders surveyed for January's Housing Market Index said…
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19
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

3 Ways That Buying a New Construction Home Beats Buying an Existing One, Every Time

Are you in the market for a new house? Whether you are a first-time home buyer or are upgrading to get more space, you will need to choose between buying an existing home or building a brand new one. As you might imagine, there are pros and cons to each kind of home. But if it is in your budget, you may want to lean towards a newer home over an older one. Let's explore three reasons why new construction homes are better than existing homes. Customize Every Aspect To Your Tastes Ask anyone living in a custom-built home and…
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18
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Looking to Buy a Home in 2018 and Don’t Know Where to Start? Here’s a Few Tips

Are you a renter that has become tired of paying someone else's mortgage and not building any equity? Or a homeowner who has a growing family and is in need of more space? Whatever the case, if you are in the market for a new home there is no time like the present. Let's explore a few tips that will help you to prepare for the home buying experience. Tip #1: Prepare For A Busy Spring Season First, it should be pretty obvious that you aren't the only house hunter on the market. Other local individuals and families alike will…
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17
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Renovating in 2018? Cash-out Mortgage Refinancing Might Be the Best Way to Fund It

If you are a homeowner thinking about a significant home renovation in 2018, you have probably already considered your budget. As with any large project, you need to have the ability to pay the expected costs plus have a little bit extra set aside, just in case. The great news is that if you are a homeowner with a mortgage, you may qualify for cash-out refinancing, which can be a helpful way to leverage some of your home equity to cover renovation costs. In today's blog post we'll explore the topic of cash-out refinancing and how this unique financial product…
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