Friday, analysts expect to count another 190,000 jobs created. If the actual figure falls short, expect mortgage rates to ease. Otherwise, look for rates to rise. Probably by a lot. Continue reading
According to the January Case-Schiller Index, values are down 3.1% from last year, retreating to the same levels from Summer 2003. As a buyer or seller in today’s market, though, don’t read too much into it. The Case-Shiller Index is far too flawed to be the final word in housing. Continue reading
February’s Pending Home Sales Index rebound breaks a 2-month losing streak, and reverses recent downward momentum in housing. Continue reading
According to the EPA, the average U.S. household spends close to $500 each year on water and sewage bills. With a few small changes, though, that figure could drop by $170. It’s all in how you use your water. Continue reading
If you’ve ever explored the idea of using a 15-year fixed rate mortgage for your home, the math is in your favor today. Talk to your loan officer before rates start rising. Continue reading
Sales of newly-built homes plunged 17 percent to an seasonally-adjusted, annualized 250,000 units in February, and the supply of new homes rose to 8.9 months in February — a 1.5 month jump from January. But there’s more to the story. Continue reading
The average apartment vacancy rate is 6.6% nationwide, down from 8.0% last year, and the number of occupied apartments rose by more during Q4 2010 than during any comparable period of the last 10 years. It’s a major reason why rents are up 2.3%. Continue reading
Existing Home Sales fell 10 percent last month, according to a report from the National Association of REALTORS®. Continue reading
According to Consumer Reports, Americans waste as much as 25% of the products they purchase. Learn the tricks of using “the last drop” of everything you buy. Continue reading
Home prices are based on supply and demand and overall home supply looks headed for a fall. Sellers are poised to regain negotiation leverage. Continue reading