Home builder confidence increased in April to an index reading of 63, which was one point higher than for March and the highest reading in six months. Analysts said that April's reading revealed more about housing market conditions in the past six months than it was an indicator of future market conditions. November's builder confidence reading was the lowest since housing markets tanked in 2008, Builder confidence recovered over the past few months despite headwinds including higher materials costs and shortages of labor and buildable lots. Home Builder Confidence Holds Steady Despite … [Read More...]
If you're staging your home to sell, you may find yourself with more stuff than space. Rather than selling possessions that you'd rather not part with, you can put your things into short-term storage until your home sells and you're able to move. Here are some options you have when choosing and using a self storage unit. Climate Controlled Or Not Climate controlled units are located inside buildings. They could be compared to an apartment building, except instead of housing people, these storage buildings house belongings. Inside, they are powered with electricity and a temperature control … [Read More...]
From small touches such as new lighting to larger efforts such as tiling the porch or stoop, creating curb appeal is one of the best investments you can make to resell your home fast. Here are eight ideas to maximize curb your appeal. Landscaping Is Critical For The First Impression Cut Back Trees and Shrubs. Landscaping should enhance your house, not overwhelm it. Trimming can bring impressive results. If you don't have a steady hand, leave it to a professional or handy relative. Manicure Your Lawn. A freshly mowed lawn is a must the week before a showing. Be sure to trim and edge it … [Read More...]
Last week's economic readings included reports on inflation, mortgage rates, and first-time jobless claims. Monthly reporting on consumer sentiment was delayed. Consumer Price Index: Inflation Rises in March The Consumer Price Index rose 0.40 percent in March, which matched expectations and surpassed February's month-to -month reading of 0.20 percent growth. The March reading showed the highest consumer price growth in 14 months; higher rents, fuel and food prices contributed to month-to-month price gains in March. The Core CPI excludes volatile food and energy sectors and was unchanged in … [Read More...]
Fixing up your home to sell doesn't have to be a budget-breaker. You can revitalize the look of your property with a little bit of paint in the right places. Here are some areas that will really stand out to prospective buyers. 1. Front Door The front door always makes the first impression on visitors to your home. Remember that while they are waiting to enter your home, potential buyers have nothing to do except get a good look at your front door. For maximum impact, paint the front door a contrasting color to your house color. If budget allows, add a new door knocker and door knob. 2. … [Read More...]
Members of the Federal Reserve's Federal Open Market Committee voted to hold the target range of the federal funds rate to its current range of 2.25 to 2.50 percent. The minutes of the most recent Committee meeting cited softening domestic and global economic conditions as reason for not raising the target federal funds range. While labor markets remained strong, the minutes noted that household spending and business investment slowed in the first quarter of 2019. FOMC members expected Gross Domestic Product growth to slow as compared to its 2018 pace. While current inflation and the national … [Read More...]