A: You can get a home loan from several different sources—a credit union, commercial bank, mortgage company, finance company, government agency, thrift (which includes savings banks and savings & loan associations), mortgage broker, and even the seller. Note, however, that many lenders have tightened their credit standards in light of…
Homebuyers should pay close attention and avoid money pit houses as the rules of navigating local real estate continue to change. These rapidly changing rules are happening in every area of the home buying process. Some of these rules have to do with the condition of the homes themselves. Bank…
Mortgage rates hit new record lows last week with the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropping to 3.50 percent, according to Bankrate.com’s weekly national survey. The average 30-year fixed mortgage has an average of 0.40 discount and origination points. The average 15-year fixed mortgage rate slipped to 2.84 percent and…
Prior to the 1950s, clover was a part of most grass seed mixes for lawns. Clover’s ability to reseed itself and stay green was considered an advantage in the pursuit of a beautiful, green lawn. Over the years, lawn seed mixes have generally dropped the clover and gone with all…
Credit Issues by Jeff Mandel and Marlin Brandt The economy is looking up and you want to take advantage of some great home-buying opportunities before they disappear. Interest rates are still low for people with excellent credit, so you update your records and purchase your credit report from a reputable…
Builder confidence in the market for newly built, single-family homes posted a solid, five-point gain to 46 on the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index (HMI) for November. This marks the seventh consecutive monthly gain in the confidence gauge and brings it to its highest point since May…