Author Archives: KristenE

Choosing A 15-Year Fixed Rate Mortgage Over A 30-Year Fixed Rate Mortgage

If you’ve ever considered a 15-year loan term, it’s a terrific time to talk to your lender. According to Freddie Mac’s weekly mortgage rate survey, the 15-year fixed rate mortgage is at its lowest point in history. Continue reading

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Annual Foreclosure Filings Down For 11th Straight Month

On an annual basis, foreclosure filings fell last month. On a monthly basis, they did not. Continue reading

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Capitalize On Low Interest Rates In Overlooked Places

It’s no secret. Rates are low right now. And, it’s not just mortgage rates, either — all types of rates are scraping rock-bottom. Borrowing rates, lending rates and savings rates are at or near their all-time lowest levels. Continue reading

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Adjustable-Rate Mortgages Starting To Adjust Higher

For the first time in a year, homeowners with adjusting mortgages are facing rising mortgage rates. Continue reading

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Everyone Lives In A Flood Zone. Are You Covered?

Flooding is the top-ranked natural disaster in the United States, with a dozen potential causes ranging from heavy rains, tropical storms and hurricanes to new housing developments and rain after fire. Floods can occur in all 50 states and, when they do, they leave massive damage in their wake. Continue reading

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Home Affordability Still Tops Nationwide

The National Association of Home Builders reports a Q2 2011 Home Opportunity Index reading of 72.6. Nearly 3 of 4 homes sold last quarter were affordable to households earning the national median income of $64,200. Continue reading

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After A Pause, Mortgage Guidelines Resume Tightening

Mortgage guidelines appear to be tightening with the nation’s largest banks. Continue reading

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As Jobs Tally Fades, Mortgage Rates Fall

The U.S. economy is no longer adding new jobs. Continue reading

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How To Rotate Your Bedroom Mattress

With the change of seasons, it’s a good reminder to rotate your bedrooms’ mattresses. Most brand manufacturers recommend a semi-annual “flip”, at least. Continue reading

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Home Values Rose In June 2011

The June 2011 Case-Shiller Index reading posted strong numbers across the board, with each of the index’s 20 tracked markets showing home price improvement from May. Continue reading

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