Friday, September 21, 2012
Detach To Sell Your Home
Selling their home can feel like they're cutting off their right arm for some sellers. They feel a sense of loss, and go on an emotional ride that takes them plummeting into the uncertainty of a move and another new home. Even if there's excitement building about the new place, leaving behind their home and its memories can cause some turmoil.
While having deep emotions about the home you lived in, for a short or long while, is normal, it can cause a lot of trouble if you unleash your emotions during the process of the marketing and sale of your home.
Telling sellers to detach to sell their home is like telling the kid whose cat has a litter to stay emotionally reserved from the kittens. You lived in the house, cared for it, and now you're being told to detach from it. Sure, some sellers are ready to take the leap into the new home and they couldn't be any more detached. But especially families who have raised their children and watched many firsts happen in their home, stay a little more connected. These are the sellers that often put a greater value on their home simply because they have a strong emotional attachment.
Selling a home is a business transaction and likely the largest financial commitment many buyers will ever make. So understanding how to not get caught up in the emotional turmoil will help you keep your home as a real estate transaction, not an emotional roller coaster ride.
First make sure you price your home based on comps of other homes sold in the area. Sounds sensible but a lot of times, emotions come into play causing sellers to overprice their home. Instead, turn to a reliable and expert real estate agent for advice and guidance. Pricing your home to sell is critical. Homes for sale usually get the most traffic in the first two weeks of being listed. If you price it too high, you'll turn off potential buyers.
Often sellers base their home value on an emotional feeling they have about their beloved home or the fact that they paid top dollar for the home. However, in today's market, a home that was purchased at the peak might not fully recoup that price.
Give buyers space. There's a term for parents who tend to over-parent. It's called helicopter parenting–appropriately named because these parents hover over their children and essentially smother them. This could apply to sellers who tend to linger while buyers are viewing their home. This makes buyers uneasy. Often they feel like they have to cut short their visit to the home. They don't feel comfortable to talk openly about the things they like or don't like about the home in the presence of the owners. The lesson here is don't hover.
Consider all offers. Sometimes there is a tendency to turn away the initial offers because sellers think they might not be asking enough since the offers came in so quickly. Yes, it's a catch-22. Sellers want to sell but when the early offers come they're a bit uncertain. Be diligent and review all offers with your agent. You never know which one will be satisfactory until you see all of them.
Emotionally detach. Remember, when you're selling your home it's just a product to a potential buyer. They will see the things you loved about your home but they also will see the things they don't love about it and they'll share those things with their agent. So, it's likely you'll hear criticism about your home. They may criticize the very things you love. Here's where you detach and let the criticism wash over you. If you need to take action, such as repairing something, do it. If it's just a matter of opinion, don't become emotionally caught up in it. This isn't personal...it's business. Sometimes that's hard to remember because with real estate, the home we buy is, in the end, our personal sanctuary but at the time of the sale–it's business. Keep the emotions out of it and detach to sell your home.
Written by Phoebe Chongchua
September 21, 2012
Thinking about Buying or Selling?Call Alvin's Team Today! 877-651-7810
Or visit our website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Get Out Of Debt
Get of debt today! It sounds a bit like a late-night infomercial, but the truth is that a debt-free lifestyle can be within reach for you and your family.
Reducing your debt-load can be the next, and biggest step, towards owning a home of your own. This is because you must have a strong credit score to buy in today's market and a strong credit score comes from healthy spending habits and low debt ratio.
Credit used to be something different than it is today. Some reports show that the volume of consumer loans more than doubled in from 1990 to 2000. Changes in credit were happening long before this decade, though. People used to buy only what they had the cash to use. Times have changed.
Students today graduate with an average of $25,000 in student loans. That is a staggering amount consider the current rate of unemployment.
The average American carries $10,700 in credit card debt (CNNMoney) and $59,000 in total household debt.
That's a lot of debt.
When the 2009 recession hit there was a resurgence of Americans paying off debts and funneling money into savings accounts. The U.S. savings rate was on the rise. This showed that American could tighten those purse strings when push came to shove.
While there are many families that are truly struggling to make ends meet and who seek out lines of credit to keep food on the table or the lights turned on, there is a large percentage of Americans that simply swipe the plastic and live on a margin.
Are you guilty of living past your means when you could instead be working towards a debt-free lifestyle and the dream of homeownership?
Homeownership is a great way to create long-term wealth and stability for your family. Today's buyers, however, need to have healthy credit scores (less debt) and of course at least 20 percent cash to put down. Let's get you started toward that dream.
The first order of business is to take an honest look at all of your debts and monthly expenses. Compare this to your monthly household income. Are you spending more than you make? Then it's time for a real intervention.
After you've taken a good, hard look at your finances, it's time to rethink your spending. Start by paying off the highest interest loans and credit cards first. Don't fall into the trap of making minimum payments. Write out a budget of your monthly must haves: rent, groceries, gas, tuition, and utilities. Then use the extra funds to invigorate pay off debt in big, healthy chunks.
It'll be an adjustment at first, but then your new spending ways will become habit. Find alternatives to your favorite activities and nip shopping addictions in the bud. It's time to switch up your priorities. It's not all about having fun. Sometimes we need to be responsible adults and pay off debt before we take vacations, buy new clothes, or buy new cars. Learn to appreciate what you have, stay away from buying what you don't need, and to keep your goals in mind. Homeownership is a very worthy goal. Make budgeting and paying off debt your top priority and you'll reach that goal!
Written by Carla Hill
Published by Realty Times
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Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Picture This House: Why Photos Sell Your Home
As we head into fall, the change in seasons brings about a feeling of concern for some sellers. They fear that their home won't be looked at as much or, worse, won't sell.
Yes, it's true that many buyers, especially those with children, like to be settled into their new home before the school year starts. However, that doesn't mean it's too late for your home to sell.
Stepping up the marketing and generating the right kind of buzz can keep the visits to your home high and create interest in some high traffic places such as social media outlets that can help lure potential buyers in.
We all know the adage, "A picture is worth a thousand words". Well, when it comes to real estate, homes with high-quality pictures are about 60 percent more viewed than those advertised without photos. I'd say that poor photos would also lessen the chance that your home is viewed and/or visited.
This simply makes sense when you think about where most people start to shop for a home--online. Simply having text copy that describes the home, no matter how well written it is, doesn't do what photos and video can do.
Having your home professionally photographed is worth the time and money. If the photographer knows his/her trade well, the photos will "WOW" viewers. Even better, if a video accompanies the photos, you can place both on social media sites. Through the video, you can tell a powerful story. The agent or the homeowner can share compelling information about what makes this home unique.
In a video, you don't want to be emotional, rather, you want to share why this home fits the audience you are targeting. That means you need to know your audience. The same goes for the photo.
At the heart of your marketing should be images that tell a story in photos that convey why this home is a "must-have". Of course, searching for a home is still ultimately based on these parameters (which are usually entered-into a search engine): price, location, square footage, number of bathrooms and bedrooms, pool, etc. Once those parameters have been met and a filtered list of homes is shown, then it comes down to the photos and videos. Potential buyers don't want to waste their time physically driving to homes that aren't what they are looking for. So the better quality the photos, the better results in sales.
What makes quality photos? Good lighting, interesting angles, non-cluttered rooms, color, depth (size of room space), and overall exceptional quality of the image and video. That means the ISO, can't be too high or you'll experience a lot of "noise" (dark areas) in the photo. Raising the electronic gain too much on the video camera can make the video quality poor.
Unless, you're an excellent or pro photographer/videographer, don't attempt to photograph your home yourself. These photos are vital to the sale of your home. They're the marketing materials that will enhance the copy that's written about your home. And, again, the video and photos are often the enticement to actually get potential buyers in the door to make an offer.
Prepare for the professional photographers and videographers. Before your photo experts arrive, be sure to make a list of suggested angles and areas to shoot. Think about where you have your morning coffee. Is it outside on the deck overlooking an amazing sunrise? If so, even though that isn't specifically a photo of the home, it's a photo that tells a story about the home–be sure to have the sunrise photographed. The message in the photo and video will tell a story about the kind of experience buyers will have in this home when they buy it. And, that is definitely worth a thousand words.
Written by Phoebe Chongchua
September 7, 2012
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Thursday, September 6, 2012
Home Prices Rebounding With Low Mortgage Rates
Over the course of several months, home prices in many markets have been rebounding with the consistent level of low mortgage rates. The National Association of Realtors data has shown five consecutive months of home price increases through July 2012. This past week, the S&P/Case-Shiller National Home Price Index showed a 1.2% increase during the second quarter of this year. It is obvious that the housing market is recovering at a modest but steady pace as mortgage rates continue to remain affordable, as well as, attractive.
Lending guidelines remain strict for home purchase loans and traditional
The Home Affordable Refinance Program,
However, many lenders still have strict overlays on HARP which has made it difficult for many borrowers to refinance. HARP requirements and mortgage rates differ from lender to lender and require borrowers to actively seek which one will give them an approval and the best deal. The fastest results can be obtained with an online inquiry where lenders are willing and available to assist borrowers who receive a response within minutes and without the need of a social security number.
The FHA streamline refinance is, in many ways, the FHA version of HARP. This refinance is available for all FHA borrowers and, with no cash out, does not require an appraisal or other documentation. This works well especially for underwater borrowers or those who have a deduction in income. Now, for borrowers who have FHA loans that were endorsed prior to June 1, 2009, the FHA streamline has a reduced upfront mortgage insurance premium of .01% and annual mortgage insurance premium of .55%.
This reduction was done to entice more borrowers to obtain an FHA streamline at today's low, affordable mortgage rates, thus reducing the cost of homeownership in order to prevent further foreclosures or defaults. Current FHA 30 year fixed mortgage rates are at 3.125%, FHA 15 year fixed mortgage rates are at 2.625% and FHA 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates are at 2.625%. FHA still offers several mortgage purchase programs that have low down payment requirements, easier credit qualifying and all the long standing benefits that FHA mortgages have had in place for years.
Although FHA closing costs (APR) are high because of various FHA fees and the upfront front mortgage insurance premium, FHA allows borrowers to add this amount to the mortgage loan or use seller concessions in accordance with guidelines.
Current jumbo mortgage rates also remained stable this week with jumbo 30 year fixed mortgage rates at 4.250%, jumbo 15 year fixed mortgage rates at 3.125% and jumbo 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates at 2.250%. Borrowers are required to have excellent credit in order to receive these low jumbo mortgage rates with 0.7 to 1% origination fee. Jumbo mortgages are necessary in higher cost areas where the price of property exceeds the loan limits of conforming and FHA mortgages. Often, guidelines can be strict and require substantial funds for larger down payment and reserve requirements.
Without a secondary market since the housing crisis, lenders generally keep these loans within their own portfolio. Even though it is considered risky, many lenders are re-entering the jumbo loan market because it is also profitable. This move is increasing competition which is making some lenders offer flexibility with guidelines. Borrowers who are in need of jumbo mortgages should shop around for the lowest
Towards the end of last week, MBS prices (mortgage backed securities) started to increase which is good for mortgage rates. Mortgage rates depend on MBS prices and move in the opposite direction. Some data released was not favorable with investors. The Commerce Department reported that demand for U.S. goods fell 3.4% in July which was the most in eight months. The Conference Board's Index indicated a decline to 60.6 in August which is the biggest drop since October and below expectations.
Jobless claims were flat and Chicago PCE Manufacturing came in below expectations at 53.0. The Commerce Department reported that consumer spending rose 0.4% in July, second quarter GDP was revised higher to 1.7% and new orders for manufactured goods increased 2.8% in July. The biggest event last week was Fed Chief Bernanke's speech which indicated possible further monetary easing to boost the economy which investors are now anticipating to see happen at the Fed meeting which starts September 12th.
Written by Ed Ferrara
September 6, 2012
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Monday, September 3, 2012
Your Home-buying Strategy
Buying a home is both exciting and sometimes stressful...whether you're a first-time homebuyer or an expert at it. The key to reducing the stress and successfully finding the home that matches your wants, needs, and budget is to have a home-buying strategy.
A home-buying strategy serves to keep you focused, in line with your goals, and on financial track. It can function much like a marketing strategy does for a company. It contains the important tasks, outlines your objectives in buying a home, your must-haves in a home, your financial budget, your move-in timeframe, location, desires, and more.
It may sound like a lot of work but if you take the time to put together a home-buying strategy and then share it with your real estate agent, you'll find that the clear goals you have will bring you closer to finding exactly what you're looking for and, likely, in a shorter period of time.
Putting together your home-buying strategy: In previous columns, I've written about getting organized for your move by organizing a binder that holds your vital paperwork and any materials that you'll immediately need during the moving process.
Organizing your home-buying strategy works in a similar way. You'll start by taking inventory of the home you currently live in. This gives you the opportunity to note both the pros and cons. Write it all down. Then write down your must-haves, would-love-to-haves, and absolutely-nots. You can write a list on notebook paper and place it in a three-ring binder and share it with your agent. In today's digital era there are many highly useful tools and apps to help you with house hunting. The creative and social website, pinterest.com is wonderful for saving website links and photos to various boards that you organize in categories. Even if you keep digital files, also keep the binder handy as your agent will give you lots of paperwork and having it all in one place will be a big relief when it comes time to find a particular document.
Seek out financing. Do this before you start to physically go out and look for homes. Sure, seeing lots of different homes can be fun (for some people) but seeing homes that you don't qualify for is a lesson in frustration for all. Be realistic and be informed by getting the information you need from a mortgage broker who can get you pre-qualified.
Create categories in your binder. Separate sections with tabs and label them things like: budget, favorites, neighborhood, comps. This is where you will place the notes you take during your house hunting. The "budget" section clearly has the defined price point that you are comfortable with. Surprisingly, some buyers start their shopping without giving careful consideration to this and they wind up frustrated because they're not certain how much home they can afford. The "budget" section also includes other expenses that go along with owning a home such as amount of savings for household repairs and, perhaps, new home furnishings.
Bring along a small camera, video recorder or your smartphone to capture your own quick snapshots that you can print out and put in the "favorites" section of your binder. For the "neighborhood" section, be sure to take a few photos of parks or other areas in the community that make this neighborhood and location a good potential match. Again, there are apps that can also do this on your computer but I find both the use of a physical binder and digital tools to be the most effective. Sometimes you just need to see and hold the photo or papers in your hand.
In the "comps" section, you'll place the comps that you receive from your agent. Sometimes buyers will toss this information away thinking they'll remember the details. However, it's best to keep any comps you receive to review it again later when you're making your ultimate choice. Yes, there is lots of paperwork but it serves a good purpose.
Having all that paperwork and your digital apps at your finger tips will provide you with a solid and effective home-buying strategy that allows you to focus on finding the home you're looking for rather than searching for papers and photos you've misplaced. Also, later when you're contemplating, referencing the photos and notes that you've taken will help tip the scale and help you choose the home that's right for you.
Written by Phoebe Chongchua
Published by Realty Times
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Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Searching For Your New Home
You want a home. There are houses for sale. How hard can it be to find the right fit? For anyone who has house hunted before, you know the answer. It can be a time-consuming and difficult process if you don't know where to start.
In order to get started in the right direction, it's paramount that you have a good idea for what you're looking. Make a wish list that includes everything from your neighborhood preferences and budget to housing amenities.
"What if I don't know what I want?" you ask. There are buyers out there that just aren't sure if they're in the market for a condo or a single-family home. They don't know if they want to be near downtown or out in the 'burbs. If this sounds like you, then your agent can be a big help.
They can show you a few different options, explaining the pros and cons of each. Hopefully, this preview session will help you make a firm decision on the direction you're headed.
Next, learn how to navigate your local MLS. In today's technology age, it's all about previewing a house online before you take the time to go on a showing. Just because a house meets the criteria you've set forth for your agent doesn't mean it's a house you'll want to see in person.
Has your agent sent you listing info containing an MLS (Multiple Listing Service) number? You should be able to input that number on the MLS website to take you directly to that particular listing.
Better yet, have your agent sign you up for daily or weekly email updates. They can send you links to newly listed homes that fit within your given wish list criteria.
Finally, have an open mind. Some houses look stellar on paper (online). They appear to be your dream home. Once you see them in person, however, they simply don't measure up.
The opposite can be true for houses as well. A house may look shabby and run-down online (perhaps due to bad photos or bad decorating), but in person you realize the neighborhood is perfect and the house sturdy. All it needs are some cosmetic fixes.
Don't keep second guessing yourself. If from the beginning you have a solid plan on what you want, you'll be more likely to make a decisive move when the time comes. Waiting too long could mean losing out on a home you really want.
Being realistic about your wants and budget is a good way to make the house hunting process a whole lot smoother. Keep in mind that there may not be theperfect home, but there will be a home that is right for you.
Written by Carla Hill
August 29, 2012
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Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Home Builder Confidence Improves as Mortgage Rates Stay Low
As mortgage rates have continued to stay low, builders' confidence has improved for the fourth consecutive month in August according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. Increasing 2 points to 37, the index is at its highest level since February, 2007. This report is a survey of builders' outlook for single family homes sales and expectations of sales for the next six months.
In addition to this index, Building Permits increased 6.8% as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau and Department of Housing and Urban Development and was at the highest level since August, 2008. Numbers going forward are looking positive for builders with the real estate market showing signs of recovery and affordability even though it still remains fragile.
This past week, FreeRateUpdate.com's survey of wholesale and direct lenders shows that mortgage rates remained steady with 30 year fixed mortgage rates at 3.375%, 15 year fixed mortgage rates at 2.750% and 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates at 2.125%, all available with 0.7 to 1% origination fee. To obtain these low mortgage rates, borrowers must have good credit and the qualifications needed for approval. Home purchase loans and regular
On the other hand,
With FHA still offering low down payments and easier credit qualifying, there remains continued concern with their exposure to risk and rates of foreclosures. Nevertheless,
For home purchase loans, seller concessions will sometimes cover the bulk of these fees. Despite any negativity, FHA's latest offer is the FHA streamline refinance with no cash out for borrowers who have loans that were endorsed prior to June 1, 2009. Without an appraisal or other documentation, eligible borrowers can refinance quickly to the low FHA mortgage rates being offered at this time. Volume for the FHA streamline has been high enough for lenders to turn away any borrower who is not already a customer. With a larger number of FHA approved lenders available, online inquiries have become a popular way to obtain this FHA refinance.
Jumbo 30 year fixed mortgage rates increased by .125% this past week and are now at 4.250%. Jumbo 15 year fixed mortgage rates are at 3.125% and 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates are at 2.250%. Excellent credit is required in order to receive these low jumbo mortgage rates with 0.7 to 1% origination fee. These loans require full documentation for employment and income for both outside employment or self employed.
Asset statements must show enough available funds for the higher down payment and additional month of reserves that are required. Jumbo mortgages are becoming more competitive as more lenders are entering this market. While these loans are considered risky, they are also profitable for lenders who usually keep them within their portfolio. With more lender product offerings for jumbo mortgages, borrowers may find there is more flexibility when considering an approval. Obtaining lender requirements and mortgage rates in advance will help borrowers find the best deal when shopping for a jumbo loan.
Mortgage rates were at risk of rising most of last week as MBS prices fell after better than expected economic data was reported. MBS prices affect mortgage rates which move in the opposite direction. The preliminary August index for Consumer Sentiment rose to 73.6 which was the highest level since May according to the Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan report. U.S. leading economic indicators rose 0.4% in July according to the Conference Board.
The Consumer Price Index was flat for July while Core CPI, minus food and energy, was up 0.1%. Industrial Production for July increased 0.6% and the August Empire state dropped to -5.9 (the first time below zero since October, 2011). The big news was Retail Sales for July which rose 0.8% which was much better than expected. July PPI rose 0.3% and Core PPI increased 0.4%. Adding to this, data from Europe was better than expected with increased GDP data from Germany and France which sent investors back to risky assets and the stock market higher.
August 22, 2012
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Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Home Builders Offer Housing Finance Reform
It has its own idea for transitioning Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to a new mortgage securitization system for single-family and multifamily conventional mortgages.
The aim is to keep the tap open on affordable housing credit.
NAHB Chairman Barry Rutenberg, a home builder from Gainesville, FL says that means a system of private, federal and
NAHB says during a phase-in period Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac would continue to operate but be phased out by private housing finance entities (HFEs) chartered to purchase single-family and multifamily mortgages from loan originators and package the loans into securities for sale to investors worldwide.
NAHB believes the
Federal conventional mortgage support would consist of a privately funded insurance fund where the government would guarantee its solvency in a manner similar to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation's backing of the fund that insures savings deposits.
Under this system, mortgage originators would pay premiums to capitalize the insurance fund, which would cover losses and ensure full payment to investors. The federal government would be required to pay investors only if the insurance fund was depleted.
"The intent is for the government to be in a secondary position and to be the insurer of last resort in order to reduce the risk to taxpayers," said Rutenberg.
Other provisions in the NAHB housing finance plan include:
• NAHB believes reforms are needed in the system for rating mortgage-backed securities and is supporting the development of new securities ratings agencies that would use criteria developed by securities investors to assure objective evaluations and avoid conflicts of interest.
• The housing finance support roles of
• State and local housing finance agencies (HFAs), as a source of housing funds, should have a more prominent housing finance role through the development of original programs for new homes and multifamily rental units involving partnering with federal and private providers of housing capital.
• Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBanks) should continue their current activities to serve as an ongoing liquidity source for institutions providing housing credit. FHLBanks' mortgage purchase programs should be enhanced by allowing the banks to move beyond portfolio purchases to securitization.
• Continue and complete steps to close the gaps in standards and oversight that allowed and facilitated the improper and illegal activities in financial and mortgage markets.
Written by Broderick Perkins
April 2, 2012 Published by Realty Times
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Friday, June 8, 2012
Record-Setting Low Fixed Mortgage Rates Persist
Freddie Mac released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey®, showing average fixed mortgage rates falling to new all-time record lows for the sixth consecutive week amid weak economic and job data helping to keep homebuyer affordability high.
Attributed to Frank Nothaft, vice president and chief economist, Freddie Mac.
"Fixed mortgage rates reached new record lows for the sixth consecutive week as long-term Treasury bond yields declined further following downwardly revised economic growth and job creation data. Gross domestic product rose 1.9 percent in the first quarter, after originally being reported as 2.2 percent, led by gains in inventories, more government cutbacks and the slowest increase in corporate profits in over three years. In addition, the economy added 69,000 jobs in May, less than half of the market consensus forecast and revisions subtracted a total of 49,000 workers in March and April. Lastly, the unemployment rate ticked up from 8.1 percent in April to 8.2 percent."
June 8, 2012, Published by Realty Times
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Monday, June 4, 2012
Rates Hit All-Time Record Lows, Again
In Freddie Mac's results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey®, fixed mortgage rates followed bond yields lower to new all-time record lows. The 30-year fixed averaged 3.75 percent setting a new all-time record low for the fifth consecutive week. The 15-year fixed averaged an unprecedented 2.97 percent bringing three of the four benchmark mortgage rates below 3 percent for the first time in Freddie Mac’s weekly survey.
According to Frank Nothaft, vice president and chief economist, Freddie Mac:
"Market concerns over tensions in the Eurozone led to a decline in long-term Treasury bond yields helping to bring fixed mortgage rates to new record lows this week. Compared to a year ago, rates on 30-year fixed mortgage rates are almost 0.9 percentage points lower which translates into nearly $1,200 less in annual payments on a $200,000 loan. Meanwhile, the S&P/Case-Shiller 20-city composite home price index (not seasonally adjusted) showed annual home-value gains in March in seven cities and a monthly gain in 12 cities."
June 1, 2012, Published by Realty Times
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Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Mortgage Applications Increasing as Mortgage Rates Fall Again
With the Euro-zone back in the news, it was inevitable that mortgage rates would fall again. Investors have become quite uncertain about austerity measures in Europe, especially with Greece, where opposition continues to grow. Here in the U.S., the Mortgage Banker's Association reported that mortgage applications increased 1.7% on a seasonally adjusted basis for the week ending May 4th.
Of these applications, the Refinance Index was up 1.3% and the seasonally adjusted Purchase Index increased 3.4%, with the majority applying for conforming (conventional) mortgages.
As mortgage rates have continued at record lows, 95% of borrowers who refinance have chosen fixed rate mortgages, according to Freddie Mac. Of these, 31% have replaced their 30 year mortgage with a 20 year term or less and 66% have chosen a
Many are finding that an online inquiry is the quickest way to learn if they are eligible for
Last week, Fannie Mae released the National Housing Survey for April showing that consumers are more optimistic regarding the direction of home prices which is good news for home sellers. On the other hand, those who wish to purchase a home need to start seriously thinking about making a decision while home prices and
On Friday, President Obama proposed making mortgage refinancing available to everyone and has urged citizens to push their representatives to pass this legislation. In a plea to Congress, Obama wants to include all lenders in Harp incentives, offer streamlined refinancing to all non-GSE and non-FHA borrowers and to cut closing costs for underwater borrowers who refinance to lower monthly payments or apply the savings to rebuild equity in their homes. This could possibly be the Harp 3.0 that everyone has been waiting for since January if it gets passed by Congress.
Business for government insured FHA mortgages has decreased slightly since the increase in the upfront and annual mortgage insurance premiums in April. Current FHA 30 year fixed mortgage rates are at 3.375%, FHA 15 year fixed mortgage rates are at 2.875% and FHA 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates are at 2.875%. With the current upfront MIP at 1.75% for all FHA mortgages, the FHA closing costs (APR) which include other FHA fees are higher than conforming mortgages, but these are usually added to the mortgage amount. Existing FHA borrowers were put on hold for FHA refinances until June when the FHA streamline refinance with no cash out is re-released with lower upfront and annual mortgage insurance premiums. This is just another incentive to bring in existing FHA borrowers to refinance to lower FHA mortgage rates.
Jumbo mortgages continue to be a tighter market as lenders reduce their exposure to high risk loans. Nevertheless, current jumbo mortgage rates remain at all time lows for borrowers who are qualified. Current jumbo 30 year fixed mortgage rates dropped .125% last week and are at 4.125%. Jumbo 15 year fixed mortgage rates are at 3.375% and jumbo 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates are at 2.500%. Borrowers who have excellent credit and can meet lender guidelines can obtain these lowest jumbo mortgage rates with 0.7 to 1% origination fee. Jumbo mortgages, which are not government insured or sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, are necessary for financing above the conforming and FHA loan limits.
Although there were no significant rallies over the week, MBS prices did have an influence as can be seen with the decrease in 30 year fixed mortgage rates. Mortgage rates move in the opposite direction of MBS prices. Data released shows that in April Consumer Sentiment increased, Core PPI increased, PPI Inflation decreased and Import Prices dropped in March. According to the Labor Department, Jobless Claims were down 1,000 from the previous week which is considered a sign of improvement. Fed Chief Bernanke stated last week that although banks are stronger, they continue to be strict which is making mortgage lending sluggish. Europe is again having a strong influence on markets which will help keep mortgage rates at record lows.
Written by Ed Ferrara
May 16, 2012, Published by Realty Times
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Monday, May 14, 2012
Second Consecutive Week Of Record-Low Fixed Mortgage Rates
In Freddie Mac's results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey, the average fixed mortgage rates hit a new all-time record low for the second consecutive week as they followed bond yields lower. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has averaged below 4 percent all but one week since December 8, 2011, helping to keep homebuyer affordability high.
According to Frank Nothaft, vice president and chief economist, Freddie Mac:
"Following April's weaker than expected employment report, and the French and Greek election results raising concerns over the stability of the Euro currency zone, long-term Treasury bond yields declined allowing fixed mortgage rates to ease to new all-time record lows this week. The economy added just 115,000 jobs, below the market consensus forecast and less than in March. And although the unemployment rate declined, it reflected fewer people actively seeking jobs."
May 11, 2012, Published by Realty Times
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Monday, April 30, 2012
Fixed Mortgage Rates Hold Near Record Lows
In Freddie Mac's results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey®, average fixed mortgage rates were down slightly and hovering just above their record lows as markets waited for the Federal Reserve's monetary policy announcement. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.88 percent and has been below 4 percent all but one week in 2012. The 15-year fixed, a popular refinancing choice, averaged 3.12 percent.
According to Frank Nothaft, vice president and chief economist, Freddie Mac:
"Fixed mortgage rates held near record lows this week as the markets waited for the Federal Reserve's (Fed) April 25th monetary policy announcement following two days of deliberations. The Fed stated that it expects economic growth to remain moderate and then pick up gradually. In addition, it noted that labor market conditions have improved in recent months and it anticipates the unemployment rate will decline gradually.
"The housing market has also shown some improvement as well. The Federal Housing Finance Agency's purchase-only house price index rose at a monthly rate of 0.3 percent in February. Moreover, 12 out of 20 metropolitan areas experienced increases over the month, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller® 20-city indexes, led by a 2.1 percent gain in Phoenix. New home sales in March were stronger than the consensus market forecast and February's sales were revised upwards to the strongest pace in almost two years. However, the Fed's statement warned that despite some signs of improvement, the housing sector still remains depressed."
April 27, 2012, Published by Realty Times
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Friday, April 27, 2012
Which Housing Style Is Right For You?
Shopping for a home is an exciting experience but there are many things to consider, starting with the fundamental question: which housing style is right for you?
You might be thinking, I want to own my own home which translates in your mind to a single- or double- story house. However, your finances, where you live, affordability, and practicality may factor in and cause you to consider other options. So let’s explore some of them.
Single-Family Housing. When many people think of owning their own house, the single-family residence first comes to mind. This type of home is the most independent. The walls are typically not joined together with any other homes. The heating and plumbing systems are separate. And, while, the house may be in a planned community that has covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) regarding what you can do to your home on the outside, there is generally the most freedom with this type of home. Some of these homes have additional fees (Mello-Roos fee) to pay for schools in the area.
These residences are usually detached houses and have land surrounding them unless, it’s a zero-lot-line house. Then the house sits on or very close to the property line. These houses are packed into areas and may offer extra space inside but at the compromise for little land outside.
Row houses are often situated this way. However, while the single-family home can have a little different look, the row houses are generally identical and lined up side-by-side, thus the term: row houses. Sometimes there is a small backyard area behind the row house. The row houses also usually share a wall or two with the other houses. This also makes them more affordable than the detached, single-family house.
The Duplex. This type of house shares a roof and one wall but the other side is separate from other homes. You can also choose from triplexes and quadruplexes. Some buyers decide to go for this style of housing because they can live in one of the units and rent out the others to help pay for their mortgage. This allows them to save to and, later, if they choose, to purchase another home and rent out all of the units.
Townhouse. This style of house shares a wall and common areas such as parking lots, and walkways.
Condominiums. These units often look a lot like apartments. In fact, some apartments have been part of a condominium conversion. The individual unit is owned by a homeowner. Often the homeowner purchases the unit and rents it out. Homeowners have an ownership interest in the common elements which can include halls, stairways, elevators, parking lots, open areas, and other amenities.
As with townhouses and even single-family homes that are in planned communities, there is a fee for the care of the common areas.
The Microhouse. They may be small as the name states but they can be plenty big especially for those who are living alone or traveling frequently and simply want an easy-to-care-for home.
These micro or mini houses can be just a few hundred square feet to a thousand. Often they are vertically built and they have more living space by the use of lofts and smaller- than-usual furniture and appliances. Some have unique features such as a deck on the roof.
So whether you’re shopping for a single-family, detached home or a minihouse, having a basic understanding about what you can expect with each housing style is an optimal way to begin your search. Then let your experienced real estate agent guide you to the suitable options that can best meet your specific needs.
Written by Phoebe Chongchua
April 26, 2012
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Monday, April 23, 2012
Nevada gaming win sees big gain in February — expect at North Tahoe
Resorts across the state are hailing February's gaming numbers as growing evidence that the average tour ist is returning to Ne vada casinos.
In both December and February, the total gaming “win” — the casinos' take from gaming, excluding food, drinks, lodgings or other revenue — increased despite decreases in baccarat.
Gaming Control Board analyst Mike Lawton said that hasn't happened since May 2007.
The total win of $932.2 million was up 5.7 percent despite the fact that the game and table win (which excludes slots) was down nearly 1 percent compared with a year ago.
Table games brought in $360.6 million for resorts statewide.
Slot win totaled $571.5 million, 10.3 percent higher than the previous year and the largest percentage increase since September 2007.
Carson Valley casinos reported a 3.5 percent increase to $7.86 million. But it was an easy comparison, since win was down 2.9 percent in February 2011.
For the seven months of the fiscal year to date, that still leaves Carson, which includes portions of Doug las County, down 1.2 percent.
“The core customer really came through heavy this month,” Lawton said.
For much of the past two years, monthly casino win has depended largely on the high rollers.
February also was the fifth straight month of year-over-year increases — the first time that's happened since 2006. That increase came despite the fact that Chinese New Year was in January this year. That event — a major draw, particularly for high rollers — was in February a year ago.
Every reporting area in the state except North Lake Tahoe and parts of Elko and Laughlin counties was up in February.
Baccarat was down 14.3 percent to $408 million as both the play and the win percentage fell.
Minus baccarat, total statewide win would have been up 10.4 percent over last year.
North Shore casinos at Tahoe suffered a 7.5 percent decrease after a 15.5 percent decrease a year ago. The major culprit was the blackjack tables, which saw a $242,000 decrease in win — nearly all of the area's $249,000 decrease. That dragged game and table win down almost 40 percent.
South Shore casinos at Tahoe had a banner month. Total win of $15.1 million is 10.25 percent above last February. That is the third consecutive month of increases at Stateline and puts those casinos 6.44 percent ahead of where they were at this point last fiscal year. Both slot win and game and table win were up more than 10 percent. Slot play was up nearly 14 percent.
The amount wagered on games was actually down 15.5 percent, but the hold percentage — what the casinos kept — was up from 13 percent a year ago to 17.2 percent this February.
Washoe County casinos as a whole did very well, posting an 8.1 percent increase to $60.3 million.
Churchill County casinos, like South Shore, had an excellent month. Total win increased 15 percent to $1.97 million. Blackjack win jumped 110 percent, but that only accounts for $34,000 or so of the total. Total slot win was $1.89 million, a 14.5 percent increase.
The Las Vegas Strip was up just 3.3 percent to $530.7 million. But with the local markets in Clark County posting 12.4 percent gain overall, the county finished February 5.55 percent up.
Area February Win Percentage Change
Statewide $932.27 million 5.7%
Carson Valley $7.86 million 3.51%
South Shore $15.1 million 10.25%
North Shore $1.62 million -7.49%
Washoe County $60.26 million 8.16%
Reno $43.97 million 8.18%
Clark County $812.1 million 5.55%
Las Vegas Strip $530.69 million 3.31%
Nevada Appeal
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Wednesday, April 18, 2012
It's Buying Time Again, Big Time
If you've got the income. If you've got plenty of tenure on the job. If your credit is solid. If you can otherwise past muster at the mortgage loan desk. If it's cheaper for you to buy than it is to rent.
Yes, there are lots of "ifs," but it's one of the best times in America to buy a home. And it won't last forever.
To wit
•
•
• The
• Meanwhile, owner-occupied purchases fell 15.5 percent last year.
Numbers talk
The median investment-home price was $100,000 in 2011, up 6.4 percent from $94,000 in 2010, which means you may have already missed rock-bottom in this sector.
The median sales prices for vacation properties was $121,300 in 2011, down 19 percent from 2010, which means you may still have a shot at the basement here.
Likewise, NAR reported the median price of all single-family homes dropped 4 percent from $170,600 to $163,500 in the fourth quarter 2010 to 2011 and, during the same period, condo prices fell almost 2 percent $163,500 to $160,800.
Housing market forecasts for a recovery remain mixed, but it's about when, not if. If this isn't the
But consider many of those forecasts are based on lagging information. One study by
And then there are those record low interest rates.
Don't get behind the curve and wait until a line forms and multiple offers are the norm, rather than the exception.
"But there are more things to consider than low mortgage rates and home prices when your plan is to be a successful long-term homeowner," Rodriguez added.
NeighborWorks' advice
• Be mortgage ready. If you haven't already, check your credit reports from the only federally-sanctioned source of free reports,
Looking for a mortgage with weak credit could result in a higher than anticipated mortgage cost or no mortgage at all. Work with a homeownership advisor at a
• Know all your costs. More than just a mortgage payment, homeownership comes with insurance, tax, utility, maintenance and transportation costs, among others. Include them in your budget to determine what is truly affordable.
•
• Hire good help. Get a
• Take your time. There may be some pressure to get in the market at today's affordable prices and low interest rates, but if you move too quickly that could be a mistake. Take the time to obtain a home inspection, learn the neighborhood, investigate the school district and buy only what you can
April 12, 2012
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Friday, April 13, 2012
15-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Hits New All-Time Record Low
In Freddie Mac's results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey®, average fixed mortgage rates declined for the third consecutive week on the heels of a weaker than expected employment report. The 30-year fixed averaged just above its record low while the 15-year fixed averaged a new all-time record low of 3.11 percent breaking its previous low of 3.13 percent on March 8, 2012.
According to Frank Nothaft, vice president and chief economist, Freddie Mac: "Fixed mortgage rates eased for the third consecutive week following long-term Treasury bond yields lower after a weaker than expected employment report for March. Although the unemployment rate fell to the lowest reading since January 2009, the overall economy added just 120,000 new jobs in March, nearly half that of the market consensus forecast. On a more positive note, the Federal Reserve reported hiring was steady, or showed a modest increase, across many of its Districts in its April 11th Beige Book of regional economic conditions."
April 13, 2012, Published by Realty Times
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