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The Cost Of Waiting

Failing to refinance a home loan when interest rates fall can be a very costly mistake—tens of thousands of dollars in savings can be lost over the life of the loan. Yet about 20% of U.S. homeowners had fallen into this trap, according to a paper published this summer by the National Bureau of Economic […]

Controversial Rate Checker Tool Tweaked

Under strong criticism from the Mortgage Bankers Association and other industry trade groups, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau made tweaks to its controversial Rate Checker consumer tool. But MBA President and CEO David Stevens said the tweaks do nothing to resolve “fundamental flaws” with the tool and continue to provide “misleading” information to consumers.  On […]

What Tenants Should Know About Security Deposits

What is a security deposit? A security deposit is any advance money a tenant gives to a landlord as security against damage to the rental premises or for advance rent. A security deposit may be called a “damage deposit,” “last month’s rent,” a “pet deposit,” or by another name. How do I get my security […]

Previous Owners Buy–Back Repossessed Homes at Present Market Value

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac directed to change policies relating to the sale of real estate owned (REO) properties in their current inventory by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). The change requires real estate owned properties (REOs) to be sold to any qualified purchasers at the property’s fair market value. Under the new policy […]

Delayed Home Loans For Cash Buyers

Good news for cash homebuyers wanting to get home loans quickly after purchasing a home. You can get a cash-out refinance almost immediately, thanks to a little known Fannie Mae program. The delayed financing program allows all-cash homebuyers to refinance and take equity out as soon as they close on the home purchase. That’s good news […]

Is Buying or Renting Right for You?

Learn more about building wealth through home ownership by entering to win this month’s real estate book. Beginner’s Guide to Building Wealth Buying Houses. Homeownership is not for everyone, but it may be the best way for most working families to build long-term financial security and independence. Here are three simple ways homeownership builds financial […]

The Markets

Rates rebounded in the past week but stayed near their lows for the year. Freddie Mac announced that for the last week in October, 30-year fixed rates rose to 3.98% from 3.92% the week before. The average for 15-year loans increased to 3.13%. Adjustable rates were also higher, with the average for one-year adjustables moving […]

IS FHA Home Flipping Waiver About to End?

That’s an important question for buyers, sellers, investors and realty agents who’ve taken part in a nationwide wave of renovations and quick resale using Federal Housing Administration-backed loans during the last four years. The answer is yes — get your rehabs done soon. The federal agency whose policy change in 2010 made tens of thousands […]

How to Fix a Slow-Filling Toilet — Home 101

Lowe’s Home 101 experts, Joel and Courtney, show what to look for if you have a slow filling toilet tank. As part of Lowe’s REALTORS® benefit program we bring you some creative ideas for maintaining your home.  Be sure to visit often to view e-newsletters loaded with helpful home improvement tips, and more….  

Home For Sale In Winter Springs Florida

New on market, This desirable 4 bedroom home in Diamond Hill a residential golf course community in Valrico is priced for a quick sale. Diamond Hill is a well established family neighborhood and is considered one of the Valri top communities. Neighborhood features includes highly rated schools, golf course, tennis courts, fitness center, a cabana and […]