What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 24th, 2019

Last week's economic reports included monthly readings on housing market conditions, housing starts and building permits issued. Sales of pre-owned homes were released; the Federal Reserve announced its decision not to raise its key interest rate range. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released. NAHB: Home Builder Confidence Slips in June The National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index for June showed builder confidence was two points lower at an index reading of 64. Builders surveyed said ongoing concerns such as lot and labor shortages impacted their outlook, but builders were also concerned over…
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4 Times When Laminate Flooring Is Better Than Hardwood

Hardwood flooring is considered a premium flooring material. It's natural, long-lasting, durable and comes in a wide assortment of colors, wood, stains and plank widths. But hardwood flooring isn't always the best choice. If you're looking at homes to buy and eliminating the ones with laminate flooring, you could be overlooking some important considerations. There are at least four times when laminate flooring is a better option than hardwood: 1. You Live In A Very Humid Climate Excess humidity isn't kind to hardwood floors. Wood is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the surroundings. Too much moisture in the…
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NAHB: Builder Confidence Slips in June

Homebuilder confidence dropped two points in June according to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index. June's index reading was 64, which indicates strong sentiment among home builders for current housing market conditions. NAHB component readings also dropped in June with builder confidence in current home sales one point lower at an index reading of 71. Home builder confidence in home sales conditions over the next six months dropped two points to 70 and builder confidence in buyer traffic was one point lower at 48. Buyer traffic readings seldom exceed the NAHB benchmark reading of 50. Index readings…
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