22
Dec
By Adrian Willanger
Home Values, ,

Financing Your Oasis with a Construction Loan for Swimming Pools and Spas

Creating a backyard oasis with a swimming pool, hot tub, or water feature can transform your outdoor space into a haven for relaxation and entertainment. However, financing such a project often involves careful planning and consideration. One popular financial option for these endeavors is a construction loan. Understanding Construction Loans Construction loans are specialized financing options designed to fund the building or renovation of properties. They differ from traditional home loans in that they provide funds in stages, often referred to as "draws," as the project progresses. These loans typically have variable interest rates and shorter terms compared to standard…
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28
Jun
By Jim Hasek
Home Values, ,

Renovating a Bathroom: DIY vs Hiring a Professional

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 Over time, it may start to show signs of wear and tear or become outdated.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…
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28
Jun
By Jim Hasek
Home Values, ,

Renovating a Bathroom: DIY vs Hiring a Professional

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 Over time, it may start to show signs of wear and tear or become outdated.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…
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07
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Home Values, ,

Case-Shiller Home Price Growth Ticks Upward in November Reading

Home prices increased in November, with national home prices up 0.70 percent month-to-month and 6.20 percent higher year-over year. Case-Shiller's 20-City Home Price Index rose by 0.70 percent in the three-month period ending in November; nationally, home prices grew 6.20 percent year-over-year. Seattle, Washington held first place in home price growth with a year-over-year increase of 12.70 percent. Las Vegas, Nevada home prices followed with year-over-year home price growth of 10.60 percent. San Francisco, California home prices grew by 9.10 percent year-over-year. Slim supplies of homes for sale drove rising home prices and sidelined would-be borrowers as affordability remained out…
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29
Nov
By Jim Hasek
Home Values

Case-Shiller: Home Prices Grow at Fastest Rate Since June 2014

Home prices continued to rise in September according to Case-Shiller National and 20-City home price index reports. According to the National Home Price Index, national home prices rose 0.70 percent month for the three months ending in September. The National Index regained its pre-housing bubble peak and surpassed it by 5.90 percent as of September. The 20-City Home Price Index rose 0.50 percent from August's reading. Analysts forecast a growth rate of 0.40 percent month-to-month. The 20-City Home Price Index indicates a home price growth rate 0f 6.20 percent year-over-year. The 20-City Index remained 1.50 percent below its peak in…
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16
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Home Values

NAHB: Builder Sentiment Surges in August

Home builder confidence in housing market conditions surged in August after sagging to an eight-month low in July. The National Association of Home Builders reported a July reading of 68 in August after analysts expected a one- point increase from July's Housing Market Index reading of 64. Any reading over 50 indicates that more builders consider housing market conditions positive than those who do not. Component readings of the Housing Market Index also improved in August. Builder confidence in current housing market condition rose four points to 74; Builder confidence in housing market conditions over the next six months rose…
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