Author: Mortgage Blog Content
13
Jul
2021
The current housing demand is unparalleled and because of this demand, home prices are skyrocketing. Nonetheless, people continue to shop for homes. Low interest rates and high demand combined with supply chain issues are stunting the homebuilding industry, creating a perfect storm for an unprecedented housing market. In addition, there are many millennials who are looking for homes right now as well. Why is this the case? Interest Rates Are At Record Lows One of the biggest reasons why so many younger people are looking to buy a home is that low-interest rates make them more affordable. As a result, people are able to stretch their dollars farther. There is no question…
12
Jul
2021
Last week’s scheduled economic reporting included readings from the Fed’s Federal Open Market Committee, news on changing FHA home loan requirements for borrowers with student loans, and reporting on job openings. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released. FOMC Minutes Show Fed’s Reluctance to Raise Target Rate The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve released minutes of its meeting held via teleconferencing on June 15 and 16. The Committee resumed its consideration of creating “domestic and foreign repurchase agencies that would have a backdrop role in fostering implementation and support of monetary policy and smooth functioning of markets,” but no decisions were made. FOMC members…
09
Jul
2021
There are two broad categories of mortgages. The first is government mortgages, which include USDA, FHA, and VA loans. These loans are backed and insured by the United States government. The other category is conventional mortgages. These are mortgages that are insured by private lenders, such as banks and credit unions. What are the differences between these two loan options? Government Mortgages The qualifications for government mortgages are usually more lenient than conventional loans. For example, FHA mortgages are usually backed by the Federal Housing Administration. FHA loans could be a smart option for borrowers who might not be able to make a large down payment or who are taking out…
08
Jul
2021
Due to the fact that mortgage rates are still hovering near record lows, many homeowners are considering refinancing to a lower interest rate. This is a great way for homeowners to shorten the term of the loan, reduce the size of their monthly payments, and access cash for a home improvement project. On the other hand, there are some situations where it might be too soon to refinance an existing mortgage. What are a few factors to consider? Conventional Home Loans Might Require A Certain Amount Of Equity Homeowners with a conventional loan should reach out to their lender to see what the requirements are on the home loan before refinancing.…
07
Jul
2021
When a homeowner makes the decision to upgrade flooring in one area of the home or throughout the entire space, there are numerous materials that may be considered. While each material option has its unique benefits and advantages, many are drawn to hardwood flooring as an option. This is a material that has the potential to boost home value, and a closer look at its benefits will reveal why this is the case. A Durable, Long-Lasting Material With many flooring options, homeowners understand that the material will need to be replaced or upgraded over the years. With hardwood flooring, the timeless appeal and incredible durability of the material means that the…
06
Jul
2021
Last week’s economic reports included readings from S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Indices and data on pending home sales. Readings on job growth and und unemployment were also released along with weekly reports on mortgage rates and jobless claims. S&P Case-Shiller: April Home Price Gains Reach Record Highs Craig Lazzara, managing director and global head of investment strategy for S&P Dow Jones Indices, said that April’s year-over-year national home price growth rate of 14.60 percent was “ truly extraordinary.” All cities included in the 20-City Home Price Index posted higher home prices; five cities including Charlotte, North Carolina, Cleveland, Ohio, and Dallas, Texas posted their highest home price gains ever along with…
