In an economy hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, impacts to the housing market aren’t cut-and-dried. Demand for homes appeared to drop along with sales in March, but home prices have risen. What does this mean for the average homebuyer or seller? Gary Pivo, a professor of real estate… Read more »
Real Estate and Finance
Eight questions to ask before going solar
With a growing number of homeowners looking to save money on power bills and help the environment, rooftops across America are taking on a new look, as more homes are dotted with solar panels. But it’s important to ask the right questions before installing them on your home. “While… Read more »
Concerned about see-sawing mortgage rates? Borrowers have options
While mortgage interest rates remain near historic lows, they had been slowly rising over the third quarter of 2018, increasing the cost of 30-year loans for borrowers. If rates rise again, home buyers have other options to consider: an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM), which provides an initial lower monthly… Read more »
Cash-out refinancing may sound great but can turn into a costly mistake
After years of making regular mortgage payments, it feels good to watch your net worth make upward progress. That is especially true if your house is also gaining value. With a growing amount of equity comes peace of mind, knowing you have the option of tapping into it when… Read more »
Home-buying tips for first-timers, old-timers
(BPT) — Whether you are buying a home for the first time or you are just looking for an upgrade, it is never a bad idea to arm yourself with tips that can make your search go from overwhelming to enjoyable. Rather than learning the hard way about hidden expenses… Read more »
How much do you need for a down payment?
(BPT) — It’s a common misconception that a 20 percent down payment is required to buy a home. Let’s face it, a 20 percent down payment is a lot of money, and often the largest obstacle for homeownership, especially for first-time buyers. You can qualify for a conventional mortgage… Read more »
Top tips and decluttering insights to make your next move go smoothly
(Statepoint) — Moving can be emotional and the ways you manage it — including the downsizing of your possessions — may be influenced by your age, suggests a new study. “From heirlooms to kitchen gadgets, moving is one of the few times in life when you’re forced to consider all… Read more »