Blog – Page 645 of 783

16 Apr 2015

Home Builder Confidence Rises in April

Market Outlook

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported that April's Housing Market Index rose from a reading of 52 in March to 56 for April. This is in line with warmer weather and the peak home buying season in spring and summer. Readings over 50 indicate that more builders view market conditions as positive as those who do not. NAHB members cited lower mortgage rates and better labor market conditions as reasons they expect more home buyers to enter the market. All Components of Builder Confidence Increase The NAHB Home Builder Index is calculated from three components. The reading for…

15 Apr 2015

By Mark Feder

You Ask, We Answer: How Often Should I Refinance the Mortgage on My House?

Home Mortgage Tips

Refinancing a home mortgage can provide you with an incredible range of benefits. These include everything from reducing your mortgage term and lowering your payments to helping you more effectively build equity or pulling equity out to use for beneficial purposes. One common question that many homeowners ask is how often a mortgage should be refinanced. While there are benefits associated with mortgage refinancing, there are also some points to consider before you rush into the process. Think About Refinancing Costs First, remember that each mortgage application will come with refinancing costs. These costs can equate to thousands of dollars…

14 Apr 2015

By Mark Feder

Suffering from Credit Problems? Understanding Mortgage Lenders and How They Assess Your Credit

Home Mortgage Tips

One of the most significant factors a mortgage lender will review when you apply for a new mortgage loan is your credit history and rating. While some people have stellar credit, others have a troubled credit history with lower scores. If you fall into the latter scenario, you may be wondering how lenders will assess your credit situation when you apply for a mortgage in the near future. Reviewing Your Credit Scores Initially, lenders will review your credit report to determine your credit scores. Your scores will have a direct impact on the interest rate that you qualify for or…

13 Apr 2015

By Mark Feder

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 13, 2015

Market Outlook

Last week's economic news included the minutes from the most recent FOMC meeting, which indicated that the Fed's monetary policymakers are eyeing a potential increase in the target federal funds rate, but don't expect to do so immediately. Members of the Federal Open Market Committee expressed concerns about lagging housing markets and noted that inflation has not yet achieved the Fed's two percent goal. When the Fed decides to raise its target federal funds rate, which now stands at 0.00 to 0.25 percent, Interest rates and mortgage rates can be expected to rise as well. Mortgage Rates Lower, Jobless Claims…