As the temperature in many areas of the country starts to cool down, you might think that the housing market will do the same. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Here are 4 reasons you should consider buying your dream home this winter instead of waiting for spring!1. Prices Will Continue to RiseCoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index reports that home prices have appreciated by 6.3% over the last 12 months. The same report predicts that prices will continue to increase at a rate of 5.2% over the next … [Read more...]

According to a recent report by Trulia, “buying is cheaper than renting in 100 of the largest metro areas by an average of 37.7%.” That may have some thinking about buying a home instead of signing another lease extension. But, does that make sense from a financial perspective?In the report, Ralph McLaughlin, Trulia’s Chief Economist explains:“Owning a home is one of the most common ways households build long-term wealth, as it acts like a forced savings account. Instead of paying your … [Read more...]

There is no doubt that mortgage credit availability is expanding, meaning it is easier to finance a home today than it was last year. However, the mortgage market is still much tighter than it was prior to the housing boom and bust experienced between 2003 - 2006.The Housing Financing Policy Center at the Urban Institute just released data revealing two reasons for the current exceptionally high credit standards:Additional restrictions lenders put on borrowing because of concerns that they will be forced to … [Read more...]