What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 13th, 2025

In the first FOMC Minutes of the year, the Federal Reserve signaled strongly that while officials remain vigilant for inflation exceeding their expectations, they have no plans to raise interest rates. Much of the apprehension among speculators is the monetary policy which could keep inflation higher than expected for some time. Meanwhile, unemployment reports indicate that the previous year remained stable, consistently staying below the annual high—a positive sign of a stronger job market.  However, this has been somewhat dampened by the recent reports of the Trade Deficit. Compared to the previous year, the trade gap has nearly doubled, potentially…
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What Closing Costs Will Look Like When Selling Your Home

Selling your home can be exciting and emotional. You may be focused on the potential profit from the sale, it’s essential to understand the costs that come with closing the deal. Closing costs can significantly impact your net proceeds, so being prepared will help you avoid surprises and plan accordingly.  1. Real Estate Commissions The largest portion of your closing costs is usually the commission paid to real estate agents. This fee is typically split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent and ranges from 5% to 6% of the sale price. For instance, if your home sells for…
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Cleaning Tips to Prepare Your Home for Sale

When selling your home, first impressions are everything. A clean, well-organized space allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there and can even increase the perceived value of your property. Cleaning is not just about making your home look good; it’s a strategic move to ensure your home stands out in a competitive market. Here’s how to tackle the cleaning process effectively when preparing your home for sale. 1. Declutter to Highlight Space Decluttering is the first step in preparing your home for sale. Buyers want to see the potential of each room, not your personal belongings. Start Room by…
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