Yesterday, we discussed the belief Americans have in homeownership and their desire to partake in this piece of the American Dream. We also discussed some of the obstacles preventing them from attaining that goal. However, studies have shown that that many of the obstacles mentioned are perceived, not real. A recent study by Fannie Mae, What Do Consumers Know About The Mortgage Qualification Criteria?, revealed that many consumers are either unsure or misinformed regarding the minimum requirements necessary to … [Read more...]
Homeownership Still Part of the American Dream
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) just released the first edition of their Housing Opportunities and Market Experience Survey (H.O.M.E.). NAR explained that the report covers: “…core topics that will be tracked on a monthly basis such as views on housing as a good financial investment, whether homeownership is part of the American Dream…” The current survey confirmed two long standing beliefs regarding homeownership: 1. Americans at every income level believe homeownership is … [Read more...]
Real Estate Shines as an Investment in 2015
A survey by The Joint Center of Housing Studies at Harvard University reveals that when a family is buying a home they consider the financial benefits of homeownership along with the social benefits. The survey mentions things like: Paying rent does not make sense Homeownership provides a good financial opportunity Owning a home helps you building family wealth Buying a home is investing in your retirement Home equity gives you something to borrow against So how did homeownership match up against other investments … [Read more...]
Top Reason to List Your House For Sale Now!
If you are debating listing your house for sale this year, here is the #1 reason not to wait! Buyer Demand Continues to Outpace the Supply of Homes For Sale The National Association of REALTORS’ (NAR) Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun recently commented on the inventory shortage: “While feedback from REALTORS® continues to suggest healthy levels of buyer interest, available listings that are move-in ready and in affordable price ranges remain hard to come by for many would-be buyers.” The latest … [Read more...]
Resolve to Hire a Real Estate Professional in 2016 [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some Highlights: Happy New Year! If you plan to buy your dream home or sell your house in 2016, resolve to use a real estate professional! Real Estate Professionals are there for you through the entire process to help with paperwork, negotiations, pricing, and so much more! Let's get together to discuss the difference having a professional in your corner can make! … [Read more...]
Here’s To A Wonderful 2016!
We hope 2016 is a great year for you both personally & professionally. … [Read more...]
American Dream of Homeownership Still Very Much Alive
In a recent post, Trulia examined whether homeownership was again being seen by adults in the US as a “part of their personal American Dream.” Over the last five years: The percentage of U.S. adults who believe homeownership is part of their American Dream increased from 70% to 75% The percentage of 18-34 Year-olds who believe homeownership is part of their American Dream increased from 65% to 80% Here is a graph of the survey over the last five years: Bottom Line As the housing industry recovers … [Read more...]
Thinking of Selling Your Home? Get Ready to Negotiate!
Now that the market has showed signs of recovery, some sellers may be tempted to try and sell their home on their own (FSBO) without using the services of a real estate professional. Real estate agents are trained and experienced in negotiation. In most cases, the seller is not. The seller must realize their ability to negotiate will determine whether they can get the best deal for themselves and their family. Here is a list of some of the people with whom the seller must be prepared to negotiate if … [Read more...]
Don’t Let Rising Rents Trap You!
There are many benefits to homeownership. One of the top ones is being able to protect yourself from rising rents and lock in your housing cost for the life of your mortgage. Don’t Become Trapped Jonathan Smoke, Chief Economist at realtor.com recently reported on what he calls a “Rental Affordability Crisis”. He warns that, “Low rental vacancies and a lack of new rental construction are pushing up rents, and we expect that they’ll outpace home price appreciation in the year … [Read more...]
Check Your Credit Report
Applying For A Mortgage? Check Your Credit Report First! The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies to provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months. The three companies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion – have set up this central website through which you can check your credit report for free. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com to get a free, no strings attached, copy of your credit report. Keep in mind that the … [Read more...]
