Lori Blank

10

Jun

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 10th, 2024

With the CPI and PPI reports coming up this week, the previous week was light on reports of any significance. Most notable was the Non-Farm Payrolls which can have an outsized impact on inflation data reporting, as it’s a useful barometer to compare the cost of goods to the payroll of the average consumer. Following that is the ISM Manufacturing Index which came in slightly under expectations. Lastly, the JOLTS Job Openings is a minor indicator, but useful for seeing the state of the job market. Non-Farm Payrolls Wages are growing by about 4%. The Federal Reserve wants to see…

07

Jun

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Tips for Making Your Home Irresistible to Buyers

Selling your home is a significant milestone, and you want to make sure it leaves a lasting impression on potential buyers. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through the art of staging. Staging transforms your living space, highlighting its best features and making it irresistible to buyers. Here are some expert tips to help you master the art of staging and get your home sold faster. 1. Declutter and Depersonalize Less is More: Start by decluttering your home. Remove excess furniture, knick-knacks, and personal items. A clutter-free space appears larger and allows buyers to visualize themselves…

06

Jun

By Lori Blank

Homebuyer Tips

Understanding the Basics: A First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide to Mortgages

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to understanding mortgages. For many first-time homebuyers, the world of mortgages can seem complex and filled with unfamiliar terminology. However, with a little knowledge and guidance, navigating the mortgage process can become much more manageable. In this guide, we'll break down the basics of mortgages, explain key terms, explore different types of mortgages, and outline the application process for beginners. Key Terms to Know: Before diving into the specifics of mortgages, it's essential to understand some key terms: Principal: The…

05

Jun

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

What Does “Sale Pending” Mean To Homebuyers?

Navigating the real estate market can be a complex journey, especially with the variety of terms and statuses you encounter during your search for the perfect home. One such term that often confuses homebuyers is "sale pending." What does it mean when a property is listed as "sale pending," and how should you approach these listings? Let's break it down. What Does "Sale Pending" Mean? When a property is marked as "sale pending," it indicates that the seller has accepted an offer from a buyer, and the home is in the process of being sold. However, the sale has not…

04

Jun

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Mortgage Forbearance

With all of the economic uncertainties, many homeowners find themselves facing financial hardships that impact their ability to meet mortgage payments. Whether it's due to job loss, medical emergencies, or other unexpected circumstances, the fear of losing one's home can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there's a lifeline available in the form of mortgage forbearance. Understanding Mortgage Forbearance Mortgage forbearance is essentially a temporary pause or reduction in your mortgage payments. It's a form of relief offered by lenders to borrowers who are experiencing financial difficulties. During the forbearance period, homeowners are allowed to either make reduced payments or no payments at…

03

Jun

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 3rd, 2024

The Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation data, the PCE Index, was the highlight of this week. These were followed up loosely by trade balance, retail inventories, and GDP — all of which are strong secondary indicators for current inflation. For lending partners and those affiliated with broader markets, inflation is the key determining factor for rate adjustments, and other data at this point has a nominal impact in comparison. It does appear the Federal Reserve wants to have a strong hand towards inflation and will be careful about cutting rates even this year. The broader market is holding such expectations as…

31

May

By Lori Blank

Mortgage Application

Explaining Earnest Money: A Crucial Element in Real Estate Transactions

If you're stepping into the world of real estate, understanding earnest money is paramount. So, let's dive in. What is Earnest Money? Earnest money, also known as a good faith deposit, is a sum of money provided by the buyer to the seller as a sign of their genuine intention to purchase the property. It essentially demonstrates the buyer's commitment to the deal. This money is typically held in an escrow account until the closing of the transaction. The Purpose of Earnest Money Shows Seriousness: By putting down earnest money, buyers signal to sellers that they are serious about purchasing…

30

May

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

The Risks and Rewards of Short Sale Properties

When you're looking to buy a home, finding a good deal is exciting, but it can also have some tricky parts. Short-sale properties are one place where this happens a lot. If you're thinking about buying one, it's important to know what you're getting into. Let's take a closer look at short sales, the associated risks, and potential benefits for consumers. What is a Short Sale? A short sale occurs when a homeowner sells their property for less than the outstanding mortgage balance, with the lender's approval. This typically happens when the homeowner is facing financial hardship and is unable…

29

May

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Eco-Friendly Homes for a Sustainable Tomorrow

In recent years, the concept of eco-friendly homes has gained significant traction, and for good reason. As awareness of environmental issues grows, more homeowners are seeking ways to minimize their carbon footprint while also reaping the benefits of sustainable living. We will discuss the world of eco-friendly homes, exploring their sustainable features and the potential cost savings they offer. From solar panels to energy-efficient appliances, there's a plethora of options available to conscientious homeowners looking to make a positive impact on the planet. The Positives of Eco-Friendly Homes Reduced Energy Consumption: One of the primary benefits of eco-friendly homes is…

28

May

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – May 28th, 2024

The Consumer Sentiment Report was the sole important report to take place the prior week, keeping with the trend of the cooling-off period that happens the weeks following the CPI and PPI data releases. Consumer sentiment this time around has come to be slightly below expectations and falling to a 6-month low, marking a great change in overall sentiment towards the clear trend in rising costs in goods and services. It is largely expected that the Federal Reserve, even with the recent improvement in data, will maintain its stance at holding rates at the current position until a later date…