What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 19th, 2019

Last week's economic news included readings  from the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index and July readings on housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly readings on initial jobless claims and mortgage rates were also released. NAHB: Home Builder Sentiment Remains High According to the National Association of Home Builders, builder confidence in housing market conditions rose one point to an index reading of 66 for August. Housing Market Index readings showed that builder sentiment has held steady with readings of 64 to 66; any reading over 50 indicates positive builder sentiment. Analysts said that despite strong readings…
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Are Tiny Homes Here To Stay?

The average size of an American home has been increasing since the 1970s. The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) reports that, in 1973, the median size for a new home in the United States was 1,660 square feet. Over the past 45 years or so, this increased by more than 1,000 square feet. The median size of a new home is now 2,687 square feet. The Problem With Big Houses At first, a big house is appealing until one tries to clean it or pay the utility bills. Many baby boomers, who are now nearing retirement age, are downsizing, especially if…
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Should You Relocate A House To Improve Its Value?

What can be done with a house that is just perfect but it is in a bad neighborhood or a dangerous spot? Think about homes that are in decent condition; yet, too close to the water. America is experiencing flooding now that is not supposed to happen in 500 years. That cute little beach bungalow could easily get wiped out in the next hurricane. It might be time to think about moving those homes to a safer area or higher ground. The International Association of Structural Movers says that around 8,000 homes are moved each year in America. Relocation may…
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