Last week's economic releases included readings on the NAHB Housing Market Index, sales of pre-owned homes, and housing starts. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also released. NAHB: Home Builder Confidence in Market Conditions Holds Steady The National Association of Home Builders reported an index reading of 67 for September, which matched August's reading. Growing concerns over impacts of tariffs on building material costs have slowed builders' confidence in current and future market conditions. Components of the NAHB Housing Market Index include readings … [Read More...]
Robert Frost once wrote that "Good fences make good neighbors." The poet was not referring to people bonding over the task of mending fences. Rather, defined boundaries are an important facet of neighborly relationships. Without clearly defined property lines and rights, otherwise good people too often become embroiled in land disputes. That's why a basic knowledge about easements and right of ways can help property owners maintain a working friendship with people whose land abuts yours. These are four of the important elements about easements and right of ways you should know. 1: Types of … [Read More...]
Home builder confidence in housing market conditions stayed flat in September. The National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index reported an index reading of 67, which matched expectations and NAHB's housing market reading for August. Analysts cited recent tariffs on building materials as a significant cause of easing builder confidence. While NAHB called September's reading "solid" at 67, the reading was one full point lower than the average reading for 2017 and equaled the lowest builder confidence reading in 2018 to date. Readings over 50 in the Housing Market Index indicate … [Read More...]
Temperate fall weather means it's time to put summer vacations behind you and start planning for winter weather. Switching coveted leisure time to home chores can be a difficult challenge. More than a few homeowners want to keep kicking back on weekends. But autumn winds mean all hands on deck. Homeowners who procrastinate could find their properties vulnerable to seasonal changes. These are some things to keep in mind about winterizing your home. Fill The Cost Gaps Arguably the single biggest waste of money is allowing heating and cooling loss. The small gaps where doors, windows and other … [Read More...]
Fall is the time to get back into a comfortable routine, but it's also a great time to incorporate social events into weekend work parties, and gather friends to offer neighbors a helping hand -- or just moral support -- to spruce up their property. While building a new sense of community may be a side effect, it can't be denied that giving homes in need of minor repairs a little TLC is good for the dollar value of the neighborhood as well as for the soul. REALTORS agree that the overall appeal of a neighborhood adds value to individual homes. Police departments and security companies also … [Read More...]
Last week's economic news included readings on consumer credit, inflation and consumer sentiment. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also released. Fed Reports Consumer Credit Jumps in July The Federal Reserve reported that consumer credit rose from $9 billion in June to $17 billion in July. Analysts said a majority of consumer credit was issued for education loans and auto loans. June's reading was revised downward to $8.50 billion from the original reading of $10.2 billion. Credit card debt increased by 1.50 percent in July after declining by – 1.40 … [Read More...]
