29 Jun 2023
By Mark Feder

S&P Case-Shiller Housing Market Indices: Short Supply of Homes for Sale Pushes Prices Up

Financial Reports
April readings for S&P Case-Shiller’s Housing Market Indices showed gains in home prices throughout the U.S. Rising prices were caused by shortages of previously-owned homes for sale and increasing buyer demand as the average 30-year mortgage rate exceeded six percent.  The southeastern region lost its top spot on S&P Case-Shiller’s 20-City Home Price Index as Chicago, Illinois, Atlanta, Georgia, and Tampa, Florida held the top three year-over-year home price growth rates for April. Chicago, Illinois Breaks Southeast’s Lead on April Home Price Growth The top three cities with the highest home price growth rates as reported in April’s   S&P Case-Shiller’s…
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28 Jun 2023
By Mark Feder

Renovating a Bathroom: DIY vs Hiring a Professional

Home Values
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 Over time, it may start to show signs of wear and tear or become outdated.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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27 Jun 2023
By Mark Feder

Most Common Questions First-Time Home-Buyers Ask

Mortgage
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone in life, but it can also be overwhelming and filled with questions. As a first-time home buyer, you want to make informed decisions and ensure a smooth process. Below we will address some of the common questions that first-time home buyers often ask. 1. What Exactly Is a Mortgage? A mortgage is an agreement between you and a lender that allows you to borrow money to purchase or refinance a home and gives the lender the right to take your property if you fail to repay the money you've borrowed. 2. What…
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26 Jun 2023
By Mark Feder

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 26, 2023

Financial Reports
Last week’s scheduled economic reports included readings on housing starts, existing home sales, and Federal  Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s congressional testimony. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released. National Home Builders Association Releases June Housing Market Index U.S.  home builder confidence rose by five points to an index reading of 55 in June according to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index. The June reading surpassed the expected reading of 51 and May’s housing market index reading of 50. Component readings for the Housing Market Index also rose as builder confidence in current market…
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