Common Misconceptions About House Flipping
Reality TV shows have energized everyday people to dive into the real estate market and make money flipping houses. The dramatic presentation and profitable end results make the industry seem like a sure thing. But house-flipping, like any industry, has its share of challenges. Television often props up ratings by showing industry pros overcoming adversity and getting a big win. But reality, unlike Reality TV, is filled by behind-the-scenes unknown obstacles. While house-flipping has emerged as a viable niche profession, these are some of the common misconceptions entrepreneurs may want to consider before wading into the business. Perfect Properties Are Available On television, the … [Read More...]
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 24th, 2018
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 on current conditions, which gained one point to 74; builder confidence in market conditions over … [Read More...]
Pros And Cons: Older Homes Versus New Construction
Opinions differ about whether home buyers are best served by purchasing an older home or new construction. New homes enjoy that "new home" smell and the idea that you are the very first occupant can be very appealing. On the other hand, older homes resonate with nostalgia and many architectural design elements are no longer commonly used. While some people feel strongly one way or the other, it's a lot like comparing apples and oranges. The right home for any home buyer is the one that fits your lifestyle. Consider these pros and cons of new and older homes when making your decision. Construction Differences Home builders often tout the state-of-the-art aspects of new construction. … [Read More...]
NAHB Housing Market Index Unchanged in September
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 that more builders than fewer are confident in housing market conditions. Components of … [Read More...]
Is A Reverse Mortgage Right For You?
Imagine the bank depositing monthly premiums into your account instead of you writing a mortgage check. That's basically how a reverse mortgage works. Traditional mortgages involve people paying down the interest and principal on a home loan. The goal is generally to pay off the property and cruise through retirement without that monthly installment eating at your budget. With your home paid off, those previously allotted finances can be used to relax and enjoy your retirement to the fullest. That's the best-case scenario anyway. But financial life has changed significantly over the past half-century. The formula for economic security has been chipped away by rising health care costs, … [Read More...]
3 Key Advantages Of Listing Your House This Fall
Homeowners looking to maximize their return on investment often want to know what season best achieves that goal. Getting near or full asking price can be influenced by a wide range of factors, including market trends, inventory and interest rates to name a few. It will come as good news to know there are strong indicators that this fall has unique listing advantages. That means listing a home this fall could help sellers get the price they want. 1: Inventory Remains Very Tight The rules of supply and demand apply equally to the housing market and there are not enough homes to go around. The single-family housing shortage has been driven by multiple factors. A large population of … [Read More...]
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 17th, 2018
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 percent in June. Non-revolving consumer debt rose by 6.40 percent in July after growing 4.0 percent in … [Read More...]
Mistakes Seasoned Home Buyers Often Make
It's not uncommon today to move several times during adulthood, whether across town or across the country. Seasoned home buyers have been through the real estate process, often more than once. However, even if the home purchase has become routine, there are mistakes that can be avoided. Stuck In The Past The real estate market doesn't stand still. It cycles and shifts, which is why it's often recommended to rely on a real estate professional for an understanding of the current market. Home buyers with property purchased ten years ago, likely won't have the same experience buying today. Don't get stuck in the past, thinking the process will play out the same. It may, but it's important to be … [Read More...]
Real Estate Remains A Strong Wealth Management Investment
A young long-haul trucker driver once took an elder's advice and invested all of his money into real estate. Even though he was seldom at home to enjoy the fruits of his labor, he hired a property management company to handle the properties. The advice that stuck with the driver was simple. "They're not making any more of it, land that is." In terms of growing personal wealth, the real estate market may fluctuate, interest rates change, and the GDP can bounce like a ball. But, land is permanent. That may seem like a simplistic view of wealth management. Maybe it is. But that trucker retired early with multiple investment properties and a reasonably wealthy man. His portrait in wealth … [Read More...]
