It is critical for everyone to find a home that is right for them. Given the current lack of inventory, this can be a significant challenge. Fortunately, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) keeps track of numerous market aspects, including how long the average family stays in a home. For the past few decades, the average family has stayed in their home for approximately six years; however, during the past few years, that average has gone up to nine years. This means that the average homeowner is keeping his or her house longer than he or she did in the past. Why is this happening? Why … [Read More...]
There are many people who purchase a home with a target monthly payment in mind. This monthly payment usually includes major expenses such as the monthly mortgage payment, real estate taxes, and homeowners’ insurance. At the same time, there are other costs as well, such as home repairs and maintenance. In general, homeowners should budget between one and three percent of the home’s value every year to cover typical maintenance and repairs. This does not include renovation expenses, which might require additional funding. What are a few examples of maintenance expenses homeowners … [Read More...]
S&P Case Shiller Home Price Indices reported new record gains for home prices in June. The National Home Price Index rose by a seasonally-adjusted annual pace of 18.60 percent as compared to May’s home price increase rate of 16.80 percent. Home prices were 41 percent higher than they were during the 2006 housing boom; home price growth was driven by high demand for homes coupled with short supplies of homes for sale. 20-City Home Price Index Posts Month-to-Month Home Price Gain of 2 Percent The S&P Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index posted a two percent gain in June as … [Read More...]
Are you working on decorating your home? Perhaps you want to spruce up your decor, but you aren't sure where to start. Where can you find inspiration for your home decor, besides the obvious home decor magazines and websites? Here are some fun and creative ideas that will inspire you when designing your decor: Luxury Hotels The next time you go on a vacation, you can find decor inspiration at your hotel. Most hotel rooms in mid-range to luxury hotels have beautiful, comforting and understated designs, so take photos if you find something that you like. Perhaps you can invest in plush throw … [Read More...]
Last week’s economic reports included readings on new and existing home sales; the University of Michigan released its monthly Consumer Sentiment Index, and weekly updates on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also published. New Home Sales and Median Home Price Rose in July The Census Bureau reported that new homes sold at a seasonally-adjusted annual pace of 353,000 sales in July; analysts expected a pace of 350,000 new homes sold based on June’s reading of 349,000 sales of new homes. Homebuyers are buying new and existing homes at a faster pace as more homes and wider … [Read More...]
In the current economy, there are a lot of millennials who are thinking about buying a home; however, the price of homes is rising quickly. It can be challenging for millennials to save the money they need to buy a home. When this is combined with other monthly expenses they have, millennials might be financially unprepared to buy a home. Finding the right house takes patience and discipline, so millennials need to avoid jumping in unprepared. What do millennials need to do to make sure they are ready for the expenses that come with owning a home? Be Aware Of How Much Money Is Required … [Read More...]
