Blog – Page 526 of 554

29 May 2018

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – May 29th, 2018

Financial ReportsHome Sales, Jobless Claims, Mortgage Rates

Last week's economic reports included readings on sales of new and previously-owned homes along with weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. Home Sales Lower in April Sales of new and previously-owned homes were lower in April. The Commerce Department reported sales of new homes at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 662,000 sales. New home sales were 1.50 percent lower than for March, but were11.60 percent higher year-over-year. Analysts expected new home sales to rise to 682,000 sales based on the March reading of 672,000 new homes sold. Sales of new homes are calculated based on a small…

Smart Technology or Home Automation: What’s the Difference?

Real EstateAutomation, Improvements, Real Estate

Is it worth it to add smart appliances or automated features if you're selling a home? Just how much connectivity do buyers want? And what exactly do the terms refer to in terms of home updates. Although smart homes and home automation are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to two basically different concepts about how appliances and home systems can operate. Then there is the need for "connectivity," adding another dimension to any discussion of futuristic home features. Home Automation According to a Texas-based Direct Energy blog, home automation has a long history, beginning with the first labor-saving devices…

Home Updates That Make Good Multi-Generational Sense

Real EstateFamilies, Home Updates, Real Estate

Multi-generational households and the growing preference on the part of many retirees toward "aging in place"have altered home design in recent years. Interiors are more open, more functional and more adaptable that they were even a decade ago. Spaces tend to be less formal; living space is better integrated with work space like the kitchen, and rooms tend to serve more than once purpose, both for quiet pursuits and for family gatherings. Universal Design Home design has gained a new dimension -- planning for the future and for a changing lifestyle. Universal design features and amenities that were once off the radar are now…