Posts with tag homebuying

WASHINGTON -- Fixed mortgages were mostly flat this week after hitting their lowest levels in decades. But few Americans are able to capitalize on them. Freddie Mac says the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage stayed at 4.22 percent for the second straight week. The rate hit 4.15 percent two weeks ago, the lowest... Continue Reading »

Real estate agents and brokers say turmoil in financial markets is planting doubts in the minds of some would-be homebuyers even as it signals opportunity for others. Plunging stock prices initially sparked by the downgrade of the U.S.'s long-term debt rating and reinforced by lingering fears of a European debt crisis... Continue Reading »

While paying down the mortgage is undoubtedly one of the largest financial burdens many Americans have to contend with, it's certainly not the only long-term investment homeowners need to consider. This is particularly true for homeowners nearing their 60s, for whom financial investments made today can have a lasting... Continue Reading »

If you're hearing a lot about short sales these days, it's no surprise. As home values have declined, the number of short sales has exploded. In September 2010, 12 percent of all U.S. real estate transactions were short sales, according to tracking by the National Association of Realtors. So what is a short sale? It's a... Continue Reading »

In a competitive buyer's market like the one we're in today, home staging is more important than ever. A successful staging can make the difference between a house that moves fast for the right price and one that languishes on the market unsold. But a handful of common mistakes can hamper the best home staging efforts. If... Continue Reading »