24 Apr 2017
By Mark Feder

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 24, 2017

Mortgage Rates
Last week's economic reports included NAHB Housing Market Index, Commerce Department readings on housing starts and building permits issued. The National Association of Realtors® released data on existing home sales; Freddie Mac released average mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released. Builder Sentiment Dips in April, but Remains Strong The National Association of Home Builders reported that home builder sentiment dipped three points in April to an index reading of 78. Any reading over 50 indicates that more builders are positive about housing market conditions than not. Builders continued to cite concerns including shortages of labor and buildable…
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21 Apr 2017
By Mark Feder

Did You Know? How Accelerating Your Mortgage Payments Can Help Your Credit Score

Home Mortgage Tips
The tough part might be over after your mortgage has been approved, but it's still important to keep on top of your monthly payments and maintain a good credit score for your financial future. If you're currently wondering how increasing your mortgage payments can help your credit outlook, here are some things to consider. Change Your Payment Schedule Most people opt for a monthly mortgage payment, which can certainly stretch the budget but is still something that can be maintained consistently. However, what many homeowners don't realize is that more consistent payments, like a bi-weekly or even weekly payment, can…
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20 Apr 2017
By Mark Feder

Going on a Nice Vacation? Protect Your Home and Valuables With These 3 Key Tips

Around The Home, Home Buyer Tips
It's always exciting to pack up and get away from your home for the sake of escape, but going on vacation also means leaving your home behind. While a good neighborhood can go a long way towards making sure your home stays safe in your absence, here are some additional tips for how to ensure you'll be coming back from your trip without incident. Take Care Of Your Property Thieves will often assume that an unkempt yard and home maintenance issues are a sign of a homeowner that doesn't care, and this will often attract them to a property. Instead…
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19 Apr 2017
By Mark Feder

NAHB: Builder Sentiment Dips in April

Mortgage Rates
According to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index for April, Builder Confidence dropped three points to an index reading of 68 in April. While any reading over 50 indicates positive builder confidence, home builders said that they continue to face obstacles including higher costs for materials and elevated costs associated with regulatory issues. Builders have repeatedly cited concerns including a lack of buildable lots and labor shortages in past months. Home Builder Component Readings Fall But Remain in Positive Territory Component readings of the Housing Market Index include builder confidence in current market conditions for newly built…
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