Last week's economic news included readings on inflation, core inflation and retail sales. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also released. Inflation, Retail Sales Rise in October Commerce Department readings for October showed higher inflation and retail sales. Consumer Price Index rose by 0.30 percent and met expectations. September's CPI reading was 0.10 percent. Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy sectors, also met expectations with a reading of 0.20 percent growth. September's reading was 0.10 percent. Analysts attributed the highest … [Read More...]
Millennials face numerous challenges when buying their first homes. 55% of young adults between 25 and 34 years old don't own homes as compared to 80% in 1967, according to data from the Census Bureau. Buying a home is tough with the $1.4 trillion student loan debt, growing childcare expenses and rising rental costs. However, hope is not lost. Millennials can realize the quintessential dream of owning a home. Millennials can employ several strategies to plan for home ownership without selling their kidneys. Here are five ways to do just that. Develop A Realistic Budget … [Read More...]
Home design trends continue to change at supersonic speeds. With New Year right around the corner, the home design world is focusing on trends that will probably reign big in 2019. So, as you make your annual resolutions or consider revamping your home, it's worth knowing them. After all, we all adore coming back to a place that makes us happy and helps us disconnect from tough days at work. It's wise to be aware of temporary fads in design, but don't be shy to try some new home designs and decor in 2019. In this post, we explore five trends to watch out for in 2019. Nature … [Read More...]
It takes hard work to achieve the American Dream of homeownership. Everyday people work to save for a down payment and build a good credit score. When you turn the key to your first home or dream home, the sweat equity feels well worth it. But the hard work of buying a home continues long after hanging family photos and hooking up a big-screen TV. There are challenges that property owners are unprepared to handle. These are three of the more common ones you may want to be ready to manage. Leaking Pipes Plumbing does not last forever and at some point, it will begin to leak. For people who have … [Read More...]
Last week's scheduled economic news was slim last week. The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve issued its post-meeting statement, weekly readings on average mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also issued. FOMC: Fed Target Rate Unchanged, but Expected to Rise in December The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve announced that it did not raise the target federal funds rate but set the stage for raising the benchmark rate n coming months. The current range for the Fed rate us 2.00 percent to 2.00 to 2.25 percent. The Fed expects to increase … [Read More...]
You just found your perfect home, and you feel like everything is right including the price. But, what could be wrong with your ideal home? Maybe, it is being sold as a short sale, and that could present a major challenge if you want to become be the eventual homeowner. Short sales are different from other conventional real estate transactions since the property in question is usually listed at a price that is much lower than the amount of the outstanding mortgage debt. Unlike a regular sale, the homeowner must obtain permission from the lender before proceeding with the transaction. Whether … [Read More...]
