The Impact of Homeownership on Family Health

The National Association of Realtors recently released a study titled ‘Social Benefits of Homeownership and Stable Housing.’ The study regarding homeownership confirmed a long-standing belief of most Americans: “Owning a home embodies the promise of individual autonomy and is the aspiration of most American households. Homeownership allows households to accumulate wealth and social status, and is the basis […]

Attention First-Time Buyers: Here’s the Key Stuff You Don’t Know About Mortgages

When it comes to mortgages, there’s a big gap between what people think they need in order to get one and the reality of what buyers are successfully doing—especially young people. I know, I know, I’ve written on down payments before (like last month, when I highlighted that putting 20% down isn’t the norm). But you know what? When […]

Sales of New Homes Surged in 2016, but Slowed in December

Brand-spankin’ new homes sold like hotcakes last year, as buyers raced to close on the abodes of their dreams. Maybe it was that new-home smell—or the sight of rising mortgage rates. Sales of new homes were up 12.2% in 2016 compared with a year earlier, according to the seasonally adjusted numbers in a joint report by the U.S. […]

Qualify for a Mortgage and have a FICO Score Under 750?

The results of countless studies have shown that potential home buyers, and even current homeowners, have an inflated view of what is really required to qualify for a mortgage in today’s market.   One such study by the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, revealed that many Millennials have not yet considered purchasing a home, […]

Moving? Here’s How to Downsize Your Stuff Without Losing Your Mind

Buying and moving into a new home is stressful enough. When you start thinking about how to transport all of your endless stuff, it’s no wonder you might fall into anxiety overload. But there is one tried-and-true way to make your move less miserable: downsizing.   Granted, sorting things to toss or donate can be a headache in […]

Real Estate Home Values Today Compared to Pre-2008 Peak

This housing market has many people talking about home values; where they are and where they are headed. It’s also interesting to look back and see how home prices compare to values prior to the housing crisis. Every quarter, Freddie Mac releases their House Price Index. The index usually provides monthly home values for: the nation as a whole […]

Americans Believe Real Estate is Best Long-Term Investment

Americans Believe Real Estate is Best Long-Term Investment According to Bankrate’s latest Financial Security Index Poll, Americans who have money to set aside for the next ten years would rather invest in real estate than any other type of investment.  It’s the general consensus that Americans do believe that real estate is the best long-term investment. Today’s housing market shows […]

2 Tips For Getting The Most Money When Selling Your House

Every homeowner wants to make sure they get the best price when selling their home. But how do you guarantee that you receive maximum value for your house? Here are two keys to ensuring you get the highest price possible. 1. Price it a LITTLE LOW for selling on your terms This may seem counterintuitive. […]