Blogs For Home Buyers

Weekly Market Update: 03/15/24

By Jane Tuomala | Mar 18, 2024 | 0 Comments

Week Ending 03/15/2024 Weekly Market Update: High Inflation Helping you navigate the market High Inflation Stronger than expected inflation data was negative for mortgage markets this week. A shortfall in consumer spending was a distant second in importance to investors, and mortgage rates ended the week higher. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is one of […]

Weekly Market Update: 03/08/24

By Jane Tuomala | Mar 9, 2024 | 0 Comments

Economic Data Weekly Market Update for Week Ending in 03/08/2024 Helping you navigate the market Unemployment Rate Climbs This week, the major economic data was weaker than expected, and there were no unfavorable surprises from the Fed. As a result, mortgage rates ended a little lower. Following very strong gains in January, the economy added […]

Weekly Market Update – 01/26/2024

By Jane Tuomala | Jan 26, 2024 | 0 Comments

Week Ending 01/26/2024 Weekly Market Update Helping you navigate the market Inflation Eases The major inflation data released this week was right on target. While GDP growth exceeded expectations, its impact was minor. As a result, mortgage rates ended the week with little change. Fed officials keep a close eye on inflation, and the PCE […]

Weekly Market Update for Week Ending 12/08/2023

By Nicole McCormick | Dec 9, 2023 | 0 Comments

Weekly Market Update from Cross Country Mortgage for the Week Ending 12/8/23 Mixed Labor Market Data The major economic data released this week revealed mixed results. This caused some volatility during the week, but mortgage rates ended with little change. In November, the economy added 199,000 jobs, above the consensus forecast of 180,000, but the […]

Weekly Market Update for Week Ending 12/01/2023

By Better Homes and Gardens Green Team | Dec 1, 2023 | 0 Comments

Weekly Market Update from Cross Country Mortgage for Week Ending 12/01/2023 Helping you navigate the market Focus on Fed Officials While the major economic data released this week caused little reaction, surprisingly dovish (in favor of looser monetary policy) comments from a Fed official were favorable for mortgage markets. As a result, rates ended the […]

Weekly Market Update for Week Ending 7/28/2023

By Better Homes and Gardens Green Team | Jul 28, 2023 | 0 Comments

Weekly Market Update from Cross Country Mortgage for the Week Ending 7/28/2023 Helping you navigate the market Fed Hikes Rates If the goal of Fed officials was to avoid any surprises at the meeting on Wednesday, they succeeded, completely sticking to the expected script. They raised the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to […]

Weekly Market Update for Week Ending 7/21/2023

By Better Homes and Gardens Green Team | Jul 22, 2023 | 0 Comments

Weekly Market Update from Cross Country Mortgage for the Week Ending 7/21/2023 Helping you navigate the market CONSUMER SPENDING RISES Mortgage markets were relatively quiet over the past week. There were no significant surprises in the economic data, and Fed officials refrained from any speaking appearances ahead of the meeting next week. As a result, […]

Should I Rent or Should I Buy? [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Nicole McCormick | Jul 15, 2022 | 0 Comments

Some Highlights It’s worth considering the many benefits of homeownership before you make the decision to rent or buy a home. When you buy, you can stabilize your housing costs, own a tangible asset, and grow your net worth as you gain equity. When you rent, you face rising housing costs, won’t see a return on your investment, and limit your ability […]

Should I Buy a Home Right Now?

By Nicole McCormick | Jul 13, 2022 | 0 Comments

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home, you likely have one question on the top of your mind: should I buy right now, or should I wait? While no one can answer that question for you, here’s some information that could help you make your decision. The Future of Home Price Appreciation Each quarter, Pulsenomics surveys a national panel of […]

Is Homeownership Still the American Dream?

By Nicole McCormick | Jul 5, 2022 | 0 Comments

Defining the American dream is personal, and no one individual will have the same definition as another. But the feelings it brings about – success, freedom, and a sense of prosperity – are universal. That’s why, for many people, homeownership remains a key part of the American dream. Your home is your stake in the community, a strong financial investment, […]

Using Your Tax Refund To Achieve Your Homeownership Goals This Year

By Nicole McCormick | April 14, 2022

If you’re buying or selling a home this year, you’re likely saving up for a variety of expenses. For buyers, that might include things like your down payment and closing costs. And for sellers, you’re probably working on a bit of spring cleaning and maintenance to spruce up your house before you list it. Either way, any money […]

The Future of Home Price Appreciation and What It Means for You

By Nicole McCormick | April 7, 2022

Many consumers are wondering what will happen with home values over the next few years. Some are concerned that the recent run-up in home prices will lead to a situation similar to the housing crash 15 years ago. However, experts say the market is totally different today. For example, Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, tweeted just last week […]

Remote Work Trends Mean Flexibility for First-Time Homebuyers

By Nicole McCormick | April 7, 2022

Today’s low inventory can be challenging for homebuyers, especially if you’re looking to purchase your first home. But if you’re one of many people who work remotely, you may have a great opportunity to use the flexibility you have at work to achieve your homebuying goals this year. In a recent report, Arch Capital Services explains how the ongoing trend of remote […]

What You Need To Budget for When Buying a Home

By Nicole McCormick | April 7, 2022

When it comes to buying a home, it can feel a bit intimidating to know how much you need to save and where to find that information. But you should know, you’re not expected to have all the answers yourself. There are many trusted professionals who can help you understand your finances and what you’ll need […]

Balancing Your Wants and Needs as a Homebuyer Today

By Nicole McCormick | April 7, 2022

Since the number of homes for sale is low today, it can feel challenging to find one that checks all your boxes. But if you know which features are absolutely essential in your next home and which ones are just nice bonuses, you can land a home that fits your needs. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist for realtor.com, explains it like this: […]

How an Energy Efficient Home Can Be a Bright Idea [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Nicole McCormick | April 7, 2022

Some Highlights With inflation driving up the cost of everyday items, seeking out an energy-efficient home can be a great way to decrease the expenses you can control. Energy efficiency can help lower your utility bills and possibly even save you money on your taxes. Options to look for include efficient appliances, windows, and solar panels. If you’re planning to buy a home this year, […]

There Are Several Great Reasons To Consider Buying a Condo Today

By Nicole McCormick | March 31, 2022

If you’re a first-time buyer looking to break into the housing market but struggling to find a home to buy, condominiums (or condos) could be a great alternative for you. Here are a few reasons condos may be something you’ll want to consider. Exploring Condos Could Add Options That Fit Your Budget Supply challenges are a […]

What’s Happening with Mortgage Rates, and Where Will They Go from Here?

By Nicole McCormick | March 31, 2022

Based on the Primary Mortgage Market Survey from Freddie Mac, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has increased by 1.2% (3.22% to 4.42%) since January of this year. The rate jumped by more than a quarter of a point from just a week ago. Here’s a visual to show how mortgage rate movement throughout 2021 was steady compared to […]

A Key To Building Wealth Is Homeownership

By Nicole McCormick | March 30, 2022

The link between financial security and homeownership is especially important today as inflation rises.  But many people may not realize just how much owning a home contributes to your overall net worth. As Leslie Rouda Smith, President of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says: “Homeownership is rewarding in so many ways and can serve as a vital component in achieving […]

What You Can Expect from the Spring Housing Market

By Nicole McCormick | March 30, 2022

As the spring housing market kicks off, you likely want to know what you can expect this season when it comes to buying or selling a house. While there are multiple factors causing some uncertainty, including the conflict overseas, rising inflation, and the first rate increase from the Federal Reserve in over three years — the housing market seems to be relatively immune. Here’s […]

What You Need To Know if You’re Thinking About Building a Home

By Nicole McCormick | March 30, 2022

If you’re ready to move up, you may be trying to decide whether you want to buy a home that’s already on the market or build a new one. And since the supply of homes available for sale today is low, you’re willing to consider either avenue. While home builders are doing everything they can to construct more […]

The Many Benefits of Homeownership

By Nicole McCormick | March 30, 2022

The past two years have taught us the true value of homeownership, especially the stability and the feeling of accomplishment it can provide. But homeownership has so much more to offer. Here’s a look at a few of the non-financial and financial benefits of owning a home. If you’re looking to buy a home today, think […]

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