Blog – Page 733 of 735

11 Feb 2013

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week: February 11th, 2013

Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates worsened last week in response to more indications that the U.S. economy and global economic trends are improving. Global economic data was stronger than expected; which generally boosts investor confidence and leads to higher mortgage rates in California and across the country. According to Freddie Mac, the average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was 3.53 percent with borrowers paying all of their closing costs and 0.8 percent in discount points along with a full complement of closing costs. The U.S Department of Commerce reported that Factory Orders for December improved over November; they rose from 0.0…

08 Feb 2013

By Mark Feder

When Can You Buy Real Estate After Foreclosure?

Personal Finance

If you lost your Solana Beach home due to foreclosure, you probably haven't given up on the dream of owning a new home. The good news is that a number of guidelines have changed which may allow you an opportunity to buy that new home sooner than you think. There are a few guidelines that lenders follow to determine when you’ll qualify for financing after foreclosure. Arming yourself with this information may help you qualify again for a mortgage. Foreclosure With Extenuating Circumstances Generally, lenders will take into consideration any extenuating circumstances surrounding the foreclosure on your California real…

07 Feb 2013

By Mark Feder

Case-Shiller Index Shows Near 6% Home Price Gain

Housing Analysis

Home prices continue their upward climb. Last week, the S&P/Case-Shiller Index showed home prices gaining 5.5 percent during the 12-month period ending November 2012, marking the largest one-year gain in home prices since May 2010. The Case-Shiller Index measures changes in home prices by tracking same-home sales throughout 20 housing markets nationwide; and the change in sales price from sale-to-sale. Detached, single-family residences are used in the Case-Shiller Index methodology and data is for closed purchase transactions only. Between November 2011 and November 2012, home values rose in 19 of the 20 Case-Shiller Index markets, with previously-hard hit areas such…

06 Feb 2013

By Mark Feder

Tax Breaks Granted By The 2012 Fiscal Cliff Negotiations

Taxes

There was plenty of discussion and debate leading up to the New Year's looming "fiscal cliff". Ultimately, the event was avoided, but not before legislation was passed which may benefit homeowners in Solana Beach and nationwide. If you have yet to file your 2012 taxes, take a minute to review the tax limitations and credit extensions, which Congress passed through the HR 8 legislation. You'll want to ensure you're paying the proper tax bill come April 15. Of course, every individual's tax situation is unique. Review your allowable deductions and credits with your tax preparer. Energy Updates The tax credit…