Recent medical school graduates, saddled by high student loan debt, sometimes have a hard time qualifying for a first mortgage. Now, however, a growing number of lenders will consider future earnings potential of high earners in the medical profession as a way to offset high debt ratios. But specialty mortgages for young physicians aren't the only unique loans available today. Nationwide, there are a number of unique programs designed to help first-time buyers qualify for a mortgage loan. While some target specific professions, others are open to a wider range of applicants. They are definitely worth exploring if you're interested in buying a home, but are not able to qualify for a standard … [Read more...]
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – October 15th, 2018
Last week's economic reports included releases on inflation, consumer sentiment. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released. Inflation and Consumer Sentiment Dip The Commerce Department reported slower growth in inflation for September. The Consumer Price Index for September showed a growth rate of 0.10 percent. Analysts projected a reading of 0.20 percent growth, which was based on August's reading of 0.20 percent. This was the sixth consecutive month-to-month increase in the inflation rate. Year-over-year, inflation has grown 2.30 percent as compared to the prior year-over-year rate of 2.70 percent. Analysts said that rising rents and homeownership costs … [Read more...]
U.S. Wage Increases Could Help Home Buyers
The struggle to achieve the American homeownership dream often feels like it happens in a vacuum. Everyday people work hard, save money and polish up their credit to get a low mortgage rate. But there are powerful forces at work that are far beyond each person's control. And until recently, the gap between American wage growth and rising home prices was widening. According to data coming out of the U.S. Department of Labor, unemployment recently hit a 49-year low and wages are enjoying the greatest uptick in nearly a decade. That is good news for prospective home buyers. American Wages On The Rise The 2018 economic news has seemed like one long greatest hits album. Historic-low unemployment … [Read more...]
Fall Outdoor Lighting Tips
Many people associate the fall months with cooler temperatures and changing colors. But another defining characteristic of fall is that the days become shorter. Yes, there's limited daylight, as the sun rises later and sets earlier. Noting this, it's important to take any exterior lighting into consideration if you're listing your home this fall. It's important because you want your home to have a welcoming vibe to it, but with the potential for showings to occur in limited daylight, some modifications and new light installations may be necessary in order for it to stand out. What's more is that exterior lighting can serve as a theft deterrent. Here's a closer look at some fall outdoor … [Read more...]
Foreclosure Rates Expected To Dip Below 12-Year Low
The record-setting pace of the U.S. economy continues to positively impact the housing market and home foreclosures now stand at an astonishing 12-year low. Coming off a GDP growth rate of 4.1 percent and a historic bull stock market run, everyday Americans appear to be benefiting from one of, if not the strongest economies in decades. According to data compiled by CoreLogic, mortgage delinquency rates continue to improve and are already at the lowest levels in 12 years. Building on last year's national trend, foreclosures and mortgages more than 30 days past due declined to 4.2 percent in May. Other analytics show that mortgages at some stage in the foreclosure process also dipped by.02 … [Read more...]
True Facts About 4 Real Estate Reality TV Myths
Many of us are guilty of plopping on the sofa and binge-watching reality TV home flipping shows. The allure of buying and selling homes for big profits with no boss looking over our shoulders has major lifestyle appeal. Shows like "Love it or List it," "House Hunters," "Flip or Flop" and others make it look incredibly simple. Even when they face adversity such as rotted wood or bad pipes, the way the reality TV stars overcome adversity is more of an inspiration than a deterrent. And plenty of everyday people do manage to succeed in the house-flipping industry. But many of the myths these ratings-driven shows perpetuate could use a little busting. Consider these four common house-flipping … [Read more...]
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – October 8th 2018
Last week's economic reports included readings on construction spending and labor reports on public and private-sector job growth. The national unemployment rate was released along with weekly reports on mortgage rates and weekly jobless claims. Construction Spending dips in September, but Residential Construction Spending Rises Construction spending rose 0.10 percent in September, but residential construction spending fell 0.70 percent month-to-month. Construction spending was 4.10 percent higher year-over-year. January through August construction spending was 5.30 percent higher than for the same period in 2017. Analysts estimated a shortage of approximately four million homes; which … [Read more...]
5 Things To Know About Severe Weather And Homeowners Insurance
The average homeowner feels secure knowing they have insurance in the event of a severe weather calamity. Most people believe that no matter what happens, they have paid for protection against disaster. Unfortunately, not every homeowners insurance policy provides full reimbursement from severe weather losses. Hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes and other rare catastrophes may not be covered under your current policy. Consider the impact of these extreme events and whether you are fully insured for the subsequent losses. 1: Hurricane Damage May Not Be Fully Covered The recent national mobilization to deal with the fallout from Hurricane Florence highlights just how catastrophic severe weather … [Read more...]
Best Things To Do Now To Get Your Finances Mortgage Ready
You probably already know that qualifying for a mortgage can be the biggest hurdle -- aside from actually finding that dream property -- along the path to home ownership. Rather than agonizing about it, however, there are some positive actions you can take in advance to help you realize your dream. Take A Close Look At Your Budget If you don't currently operate with a comprehensive household budget, get started now to analyze your income and monitor your spending habits. There's no better way to prepare for home ownership than by being realistic about how you spend your money. If you don't have a regular savings program, or if you're constantly short on cash prior to the next payday, take … [Read more...]
Case-Shiller: Home Prices Hit 11-Month Low in July
Home price growth slowed to its lowest pace in nearly a year according to the Case-Shiller Home Price Indices. National home price growth averaged 6.00 percent year-over-year as compared to 6.20 percent growth in June. The 20-city home price index rose 0.10 percent in July to a seasonally adjusted rate of 5.90 percent year-over-year. Slowing home price growth was attributed to buyer fatigue and rising inventories of available homes. Las Vegas Home Price Growth Tops 20-City Home Price Index Las Vegas, Nevada topped the 20-City Home Price index with a year-over-year home price growth rate of 13.70 percent. Las Vegas home prices crashed during the recession but continued to recover as the … [Read more...]
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