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US home sales rose to 5-year high in 2012
Great news from King5.com
WASHINGTON — U.S. sales of previously occupied homes rose in 2012 to their highest level in five years, spurred higher by record-low mortgage rates and steady hiring.
The National Association of Realtors said Tuesday that sales reached 4.65 million last year. That’s up 9.2 percent from 2011 and the most since 2007. Sales are still below the roughly 5.5 million that are consistent with a healthy market.
Sales dipped in December to a pace of 4.94 million, down from 4.99 million in November. November’s figure was revised lower, but was still the highest in three years.
Are you into DIY, Make sure you are not down grading in the process
This article from Yahoo! Real Estate gives some great tips on what not to do.
Five bargain renovations that add value
How Much Mortgage Can You Afford??
Interest rates are at an all time low, should you refinance?
5 housing markets on the way up
Great article from money.msn.com
A good time to buy?
Market watcher Housing Predictor says that U.S. home prices could keep falling across much of America for years — but that a handful of markets offer great investment opportunities right now.
12 Steps to Winterize Your Home
Great article from inman.com
The leaves are turning, the mornings are getting chilly, and winter isn’t too far away. It’s time once again for my annual checklist of important things that I recommend you do to get your home ready for the coming change of seasons.
How to get the best mortgage interest rate
Great article from Yahoo! Real Estate
Want to qualify for the best mortgage interest rates? You’ll want to know these five things that impress lenders.
Have you been thinking of buying a home or refinancing your mortgage, but wonder what it will take to qualify for those great mortgage interest rates you’ve heard touted in the press?
Well, the quick answer is that it will take a pretty impressive financial history, says Chris Boulter, president of Val-Chris Investments, Inc., a California company specializing in residential and commercial loans.
“You’re going to have to have very good credit and a stable work history,” he says. That could start you toward getting a mortgage interest rate on a 30-year fixed rate loan that, as of September 6th, 2012, was a low 3.65 percent, according to Mortgage News Daily, an organization that provides housing news and analysis.
Boulter adds that if you don’t qualify for the lowest rates, you could still qualify for rates that are typically a percentage point higher, which is still very good, historically speaking.
So don’t give up just because your credit isn’t perfect. Instead, read on for details on how to qualify for the best mortgage interest rates and what to do if you don’t qualify.
News you can use from Chicago Title
Beware of value-killing renovations
Thinking about doing some updates to your home? This article might surprise you on what is worth it and what is not. By The Street | Zillow
