Last week’s scheduled economic reporting included readings on construction spending, public and private sector payroll growth, and the national unemployment rate. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released. Construction Spending Slips in June U.S. construction spending slipped by 0.60 percent to 0.50 percent growth in June; analysts expected a month-to-month reading of 0.70 percent growth in construction spending. Year-over-year construction spending increased by 3.50 percent of which single-family residential construction accounted for 2.10 May’s reading for construction spending was revised from 0.90 percent growth to 1.10 percent … [Continue Reading...]
Making major life decisions often involves a delicate balancing act. Among the most significant choices individuals face are buying a new car and purchasing a new home. Both ventures represent milestones in one's life, bringing excitement and anticipation. However, there is a complex interplay between these two financial endeavors that can significantly impact a person's ability to achieve their dream of owning a new home. Here are some factors to consider: Debt-to-income ratio: When you apply for a home loan, your lender will consider your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) to determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Your DTI is the amount of debt you have compared to your income. High … [Continue Reading...]
The amount of equity you can borrow from your house depends on several factors, including the current market value of your home, the amount you owe on your mortgage, and your credit score. In general, lenders typically allow you to borrow up to 80% of your home's equity. For example, if your home is currently valued at $400,000 and you owe $200,000 on your mortgage, you may be able to borrow up to $160,000 (80% of the $200,000 in equity you have in your home). However, it's important to note that borrowing against your home's equity comes with risks. If you are unable to make payments on the loan, you could potentially lose your home through foreclosure. It's important to carefully consider … [Continue Reading...]
When homeowners need to tap into the equity they've built in their homes, two popular options are Home Equity Loans (HEL) and Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC). Both types of loans allow homeowners to access funds for various purposes, such as home improvements, debt consolidation, or unexpected expenses. However, it's essential to understand the differences between these two mortgage products to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and financial goals. Here are some important differences between the two. Home Equity Loan A home equity loan is a one-time loan that provides you with a lump sum of money that you repay over a fixed term, usually between five and 30 … [Continue Reading...]
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 dip of -1.90 percent and … [Continue Reading...]
When it comes to selling a house, homeowners have different options available to them. One approach that some sellers consider is selling their house "as-is." This means selling the property in its current condition without making any repairs or renovations. Pros of Selling a House "As-Is" Convenience: One of the primary advantages of selling a house as-is is the convenience it offers. By selling the property in its current condition, you can avoid the time, effort, and cost associated with repairs and renovations. Cost Savings: Selling a house as-is can potentially save you money. When you sell a property in need of repairs, you can avoid the expense of hiring contractors or professionals … [Continue Reading...]
