Lori Blank, Author at Lori Blank & Associates

31

Jul

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 31, 2023

Last week’s economic reporting included readings on the Fed’s interest rate decision, S&P Case-Shiller’s Home Price Indices, sales of new homes, and pending home sales. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also released. The Federal Reserve raised its target interest rate range to 5.25 to 5.50 percent; this announcement signaled that rates for home loans and unsecured credit would also rise. S&P Case-Shiller Reports Slower Home Price Growth in May Average U.S. home prices fell in May according to the S&P Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index. Home prices were -1.70 percent lower as compared to an expected…

27

Jul

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

The Impact of Your Employment History on Mortgage Approval

When it comes to applying for a mortgage, lenders take various factors into account to determine your eligibility. One crucial aspect they consider is your employment history. Your employment history provides lenders with valuable insights into your financial stability, income consistency, and ability to repay the loan. Lenders evaluate your income consistency to ensure that you have a reliable source of funds to cover your mortgage payments. They typically request pay stubs, W-2 forms, and tax returns to verify your income. If you have been in the same job or industry for a considerable period and have a consistent or…

26

Jul

By Lori Blank

Home Care

Transforming Your Space One Project at a Time

When it comes to home improvements, many homeowners are opting for the do-it-yourself (DIY) approach. DIY home improvements not only allow you to save money but also provide a sense of accomplishment and personalization. Whether you're fixing a leaky faucet or renovating an entire room, taking on home improvement projects can have numerous benefits that extend beyond physical transformation. Cost Savings: One of the most compelling reasons to tackle DIY home improvements is the potential for significant cost savings. Hiring professionals can be expensive, especially for minor repairs or aesthetic upgrades. By doing the work yourself, you can avoid labor…

25

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Tips for Home Sellers to Succeed in a Buyers’ Market

The Real Estate market can sometimes favor buyers, presenting a challenge for home sellers. With the right strategies and a proactive approach, it's possible to stand out and sell your home successfully, even in a buyers' market. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate and thrive in a competitive real estate market. Price Your Home Realistically: One of the key factors in selling your home quickly is pricing it right. In a buyers' market, setting an unrealistic price will deter potential buyers and prolong the selling process. Conduct in-depth research and consult with a real estate agent to…

21

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Most Common Questions First-Time Home-Buyers Ask

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone in life, but it can also be overwhelming and filled with questions. As a first-time home buyer, you want to make informed decisions and ensure a smooth process. Below we will address some of the common questions that first-time home buyers often ask. 1. What Exactly Is a Mortgage? A mortgage is an agreement between you and a lender that allows you to borrow money to purchase or refinance a home and gives the lender the right to take your property if you fail to repay the money you've borrowed. 2. What…

20

Jul

By Lori Blank

Home Financing Tips

Insufficient Property Appraisal: What to Do When the Appraisal Falls Short

When buying or selling a property, one crucial step in the process is obtaining an appraisal to determine its value. Appraisals provide an objective assessment of a property's worth, influencing important decisions such as mortgage approvals, negotiations, and even insurance premiums. However, there are instances when the appraisal falls short, causing challenges and uncertainties for both buyers and sellers. In this blog post, we will explore what to do when faced with an insufficient property appraisal and provide some practical steps to navigate this situation. Understand the Appraisal Process: Appraisals are typically conducted by licensed professionals who evaluate various factors,…

19

Jul

By Lori Blank

Around The Home

Ways That You Can Go Greener On Your Home Improvement

Making your home improvement projects more environmentally friendly is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and help protect the planet. Here are some ways you can go greener on your home improvement projects: Use eco-friendly materials: Consider using materials that are made from sustainable and renewable resources such as bamboo, cork, or recycled materials. These materials not only have a lower impact on the environment but can also add a unique touch to your home. Choose energy-efficient appliances and fixtures: When choosing appliances and fixtures for your home improvement project, look for those that are Energy Star rated.…

18

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

What is a Home Appraisal?

A home appraisal is an assessment of the value of a residential property conducted by a licensed appraiser. The purpose of a home appraisal is to provide an unbiased and objective estimate of the property's worth based on factors such as its location, size, condition, and comparable sales in the area. During a home appraisal, the appraiser will typically conduct a physical inspection of the property, taking note of its features, condition, and any upgrades or improvements that have been made. They will also research the local real estate market to identify recent sales of similar properties in the area,…

17

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 17, 2023

Last week’s economic reporting included readings on month-to-month and year-over-year inflation and consumer sentiment. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also published. Month-to-Month Inflation Rises as Year-Over-Year Inflation Slows The Consumer Price Index for June rose 0.20 percent in June as compared to May’s reading of 0.10 percent growth and expectations of 0.30 percent month-to-month growth. The core CPI reading, which excludes volatile food and fuel sectors, fell to 0.20 percent growth in June as compared to May’s month-to-month reading of 0.40 percent growth. The year-over-year reading for the Consumer Price Index in June slowed to 3.00…

13

Jul

By Lori Blank

Home Care Tips

Quick and Simple Home Improvements: Transform Your Space with Ease

When it comes to home improvements, you might envision lengthy renovation projects or a significant investment of time and money. Not all home improvements have to be big projects. There are many quick and simple changes you can make to transform your space without breaking the bank or disrupting your daily routine. Fresh Coat of Paint: One of the most effective and budget-friendly ways to revitalize any room is by applying a fresh coat of paint. A new color scheme can completely transform the ambiance, making it brighter, cozier, or more sophisticated. Choose colors that align with your desired mood…