The surge in mortgage refinancing applications in 2019, led by prolonged falling interest rates in the United States, has work piling up for the mortgage brokers who are processing them. Compared to a year ago this past week, refinancing applications were up an incredible 116%, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. With the 30-year fixed […]
The aftermath of a natural disaster is one of the most tragic scenes of loss and devastation one can imagine. It is also an opportunity for real estate investors who have learned how to profit from destruction. A report from the Wall Street Journal details the rise of a class of investors who are specifically […]
A welcoming housing market could be in the forecast for a while after Freddie Mac’s July report indicated that low mortgage rates will likely hang around for a while. With 30-year fixed mortgage rates hanging around or below 4% for much of 2019, the economy has seen an uptick in mortgage applications for purchase and […]
One of the most common investments made to improve the value of a home, both for sellers and buyers, is remodeling. The industry has thrived in times of economic growth and a solid housing market nationally, but it’s not all created equal. A new report from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies projects that […]
Natural disasters have always been a practical concern for real estate investors. Putting together a portfolio that combines safety and high performance is often the goal, and sometimes the most attractive locations happen to be in a danger zone. For decades now, the question of climate change has been a subject of debate in the […]
Over the first half of 2019, mortgage rates in the United States dipped to near-historic lows. Americans who were paying attention have reaped the benefits of refinancing, and there’s now enough data to prove they have a good gut sense. Mortgage liquidity provider Fannie Mae conducts a monthly survey in which U.S. citizens are asked […]
Mortgage interest rates have hit their lowest levels since 2016. The favorable environment now opening up for consumers is sending ripple effects through the economy. As the Federal Reserve moves closer to easing monetary policy, there’s no immediate sign that the near-record low rates will reverse. The most recent Freddie Mac rate report had the […]
Simplifying the mortgage loan application process for the average consumer has been one of the biggest motivations driving change in an industry known for complications and delays. The fintech space is likely about to see big growth from one of its fast-growing players in Blend. The San Francisco-based company digitizes paper processes for more than […]
Reverse mortages can be a valuable product for seniors in the United States who live in a particular set of circumstances that support their financial well-being. For others, drawing on home equity can prove to be a dangerous bet that ultimately impacts the housing market in the wider community. A recent study conducted by USA […]
The rise of short-term rental services such as Airbnb and VRBO has had an enormous impact on how people plan vacations. This trend has also created an exciting alternative for those who invest in rental properties. Deciding whether to use a property as a short-term rental is largely a matter of location and regulation. Because […]
