Home Price Gains Starting to Hurt Sales; Flood Insurance Life Support; When Will Boomer Exodus Begin?

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index put on a repeat performance for May. The index, which covers all nine U.S. census divisions, was up 6.4 percent, the same annual increase as was reported in April. There was a slight escalation in the monthly numbers, which estimated an increase of 1.1 percent before seasonal adjustment, and 0.4 percent afterward. In April the index rose 1.0 percent and 0.3 percent respectively. The two composite indices did decelerate slightly from their April pace. The10-City Composite gained 6.1 percent on an annual basis, down from 6.4 percent the previous month and the 20-City Composite's appreciation slowed from 6.7 percent to 6.5 percent year-over-year. On a month-over-month basis the 10-City was up 0.5 percent before adjustment and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/31/3474

Mortgage Rates Edge to 2-Month Highs; Pending Sales Finally Break Recent Losing Streak For Housing

Mortgage rates edged higher today, keeping alive a trend toward higher rates that began just over a week ago. While the overall amount of ground covered as a part of this move isn't necessarily alarming, it's significant because it brings us back to the highest levels since the end of May. This uptrend is also significant because it marks the first breakout of a flat, narrow range that had been intact for more than a month. Breakouts that follow these flat, narrow ranges are thought to carry a bit of extra momentum compared to other jumps in rates. All that to say that the pressure on rates in 2018 had taken a break in June and July, but now it could be returning . Whether or not it gets any worse this week may well be determined by the slate of economic data and events. There are several important

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/30/3472

Bonds Relieved by As-Expected GDP; Freddie Portfolio up 3.8%; Volatility Next Week?

The consensus for today's GDP reading among forecasters was for a big increase to 4.1% or 4.2% depending on who does your data aggregation. Either way, that's a big jump from the previous reading of 2.0% (now revised to 2.2%). When key data is seen rising that much, economists have a tendency to undershoot the jump. Traders know it. As such, they get in position for an even bigger move than the forecast suggests. When GDP merely came in "as-expected," bonds breathed a sigh of relief with a modest rally. It was more of a token, really, as yields never threatened yesterday's lows. Stocks confirmed the anticipation with by selling-off at the open (i.e. stocks were also expecting a bigger number, and thus gave up ground when it was "only" 4.1%). Next week is a minefield of data and events for bonds

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/27/3470

Mortgage Rates Still Trending Higher; Under 35 Homeownership Rate Rising Fastest

Mortgage rates were higher again today, depending on the lender. Some lenders had already adjusted yesterday's rate sheets for late day market weakness the followed the US/EU trade announcement (i.e. trade war averted). Lenders who didn't adjust rates yesterday were simply left to do so this morning. Markets have worked through most of this week's big ticket events (the things that could influence the bonds that influence mortgage rates). On 4 out of the past 4 days , we've seen the highest intraday bond yields move slightly higher. This forms a negative trend that should keep mortgage seekers feeling defensive when it comes to locking vs floating--especially in light of the fact that this is the first noticeable trend in more than a month. In other words, rates were exceptionally sideways

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/26/3468

New Home Sales Down 5.3 Percent; Rates Under Pressure After Tariff News; Mortgage Apps' Summertime Sadness

New home sales have adopted an up and down pattern since March and continued in that trend in June. The U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development report that those sales were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 631,00 units. This is down 5.3 percent from May's revised sales of 666,000. That is a substantial downward revision from the 689,000 units and 6.7 percent increase originally reported for the month. Sales are hanging on to a 2.4 percent improvement over the June 2017 estimate of 616,000. Analysts had expected sales to retreat but were looking for a much less definitive move. Forecasts from those polled by Econoday fell in the range of 590,000 to 685,000 units. The consensus was 668,000. Both median and average sales prices were down for the second straight

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/25/3466

Credit Score Changes on Hold; Prices Reinvigorated; Rates Higher Still

The old credit score models are safe for the time being, despite a belief that they disregard millions of creditworthy Americans, leaving them unable to be scored , and thus virtually unable to buy a home. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced on Monday that it is suspending the initiative to update the credit score model used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the GSEs). As recently as this spring FHFA had said that a decision about scoring models would be made this year. In a press release the agency said it is shifting its focus from the update to implementation of Section 310 of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (Public Law 115-174) enacted in May. The Act, which sought to undo many of the changes made by the Dodd Frank Wall Street Reform and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/24/3464

Zillow's New Tools Tackle Pain Points for Renters and Landlords

New features make the entire rental process faster and more efficient -- from applying to checking backgrounds to collecting rent.

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-31-Zillows-New-Tools-Tackle-Pain-Points-for-Renters-and-Landlords

Mortgage Rates Edge to 2-Month Highs; Pending Sales Finally Break Recent Losing Streak For Housing

Mortgage rates edged higher today, keeping alive a trend toward higher rates that began just over a week ago. While the overall amount of ground covered as a part of this move isn't necessarily alarming, it's significant because it brings us back to the highest levels since the end of May. This uptrend is also significant because it marks the first breakout of a flat, narrow range that had been intact for more than a month. Breakouts that follow these flat, narrow ranges are thought to carry a bit of extra momentum compared to other jumps in rates. All that to say that the pressure on rates in 2018 had taken a break in June and July, but now it could be returning . Whether or not it gets any worse this week may well be determined by the slate of economic data and events. There are several important

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/30/3472

Wallpaper for the Fifth Wall: A Modern Fix for Popcorn Ceilings?

By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR(R) Magazine

Some home designers want to make a bigger statement with the ceiling, and they’re turning to wallpaper to do it. Wallpaper is once again growing in popularity for walls, and some designers are now experimenting with it to dress up the ceiling too.

Some designers are using it to transform a ceiling’s living space with wallpaper in minimalist designs or in metallic. It can add texture and certainly some drama to a space.

Some designers are using floor-to-ceiling wallpaper all in the same print. Others may have the walls all painted white or a light color and then use a wallpapered ceiling to jazz up the room. Faux tin on the ceilings can be a way to create a statement ceiling too.

Use with caution, however: A dark or bold of wallpaper could make a ceiling appear lower.

But for spaces that can pull it off, a wallpapered ceiling can look chic. Plus, if you have a listing with dreaded popcorn ceilings, this can be a way to give the ceiling a modern, yet less expensive update. Check out some of these examples from designers at Houzz.

Photo by Nolen Homes & Interiors – Browse living room photos

Photo by Ruth Maria – Browse living room photos

Photo by Denver Image Photography – Look for living room design inspiration

Photo by VOH Architects – Search bathroom design ideas</di

from
http://styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org/2018/07/30/wallpaper-for-the-fifth-wall-a-modern-fix-for-popcorn-ceilings/

Wallpaper for the Fifth Wall: A Modern Fix for Popcorn Ceilings?

By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR(R) Magazine

Some home designers want to make a bigger statement with the ceiling, and they’re turning to wallpaper to do it. Wallpaper is once again growing in popularity for walls, and some designers are now experimenting with it to dress up the ceiling too.

Some designers are using it to transform a ceiling’s living space with wallpaper in minimalist designs or in metallic. It can add texture and certainly some drama to a space.

Some designers are using floor-to-ceiling wallpaper all in the same print. Others may have the walls all painted white or a light color and then use a wallpapered ceiling to jazz up the room. Faux tin on the ceilings can be a way to create a statement ceiling too.

Use with caution, however: A dark or bold of wallpaper could make a ceiling appear lower.

But for spaces that can pull it off, a wallpapered ceiling can look chic. Plus, if you have a listing with dreaded popcorn ceilings, this can be a way to give the ceiling a modern, yet less expensive update. Check out some of these examples from designers at Houzz.

Photo by Nolen Homes & Interiors – Browse living room photos

Photo by Ruth Maria – Browse living room photos

Photo by Denver Image Photography – Look for living room design inspiration

Photo by VOH Architects – Search bathroom design ideas</di

from
http://styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org/2018/07/30/wallpaper-for-the-fifth-wall-a-modern-fix-for-popcorn-ceilings/

Roundup: Broad Ripple bike-shop fixture launches expansion plan

Also, the latest on Natural Born Juicers, Smallcakes Cupcakery and Creamer, Garfield Brewery, Bonna Station, Turchetti's, Nespresso, Chuck E. Cheese, Le Peep and more.

from
https://www.ibj.com/blogs/19-property-lines/post/69815-round-up-broad-ripple-bike-shop-fixture-launches-expansion-plan

Economic Growth Moderates in Early 2018 Labor Market Continues to Be Strong

Exceptionally low housing supply and weaker affordability slowed the housing market in the first half of 2018, but total sales activity should still slightly top year-ago levels. More

from
http://www.freddiemac.com/research/outlook/20180723_economic_growth.html?attr=rssEHR

Bonds Relieved by As-Expected GDP; Freddie Portfolio up 3.8%; Volatility Next Week?

The consensus for today's GDP reading among forecasters was for a big increase to 4.1% or 4.2% depending on who does your data aggregation. Either way, that's a big jump from the previous reading of 2.0% (now revised to 2.2%). When key data is seen rising that much, economists have a tendency to undershoot the jump. Traders know it. As such, they get in position for an even bigger move than the forecast suggests. When GDP merely came in "as-expected," bonds breathed a sigh of relief with a modest rally. It was more of a token, really, as yields never threatened yesterday's lows. Stocks confirmed the anticipation with by selling-off at the open (i.e. stocks were also expecting a bigger number, and thus gave up ground when it was "only" 4.1%). Next week is a minefield of data and events for bonds

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/27/3470

Mortgage Rates Still Trending Higher; Under 35 Homeownership Rate Rising Fastest

Mortgage rates were higher again today, depending on the lender. Some lenders had already adjusted yesterday's rate sheets for late day market weakness the followed the US/EU trade announcement (i.e. trade war averted). Lenders who didn't adjust rates yesterday were simply left to do so this morning. Markets have worked through most of this week's big ticket events (the things that could influence the bonds that influence mortgage rates). On 4 out of the past 4 days , we've seen the highest intraday bond yields move slightly higher. This forms a negative trend that should keep mortgage seekers feeling defensive when it comes to locking vs floating--especially in light of the fact that this is the first noticeable trend in more than a month. In other words, rates were exceptionally sideways

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/26/3468

New Home Sales Down 5.3 Percent; Rates Under Pressure After Tariff News; Mortgage Apps' Summertime Sadness

New home sales have adopted an up and down pattern since March and continued in that trend in June. The U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development report that those sales were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 631,00 units. This is down 5.3 percent from May's revised sales of 666,000. That is a substantial downward revision from the 689,000 units and 6.7 percent increase originally reported for the month. Sales are hanging on to a 2.4 percent improvement over the June 2017 estimate of 616,000. Analysts had expected sales to retreat but were looking for a much less definitive move. Forecasts from those polled by Econoday fell in the range of 590,000 to 685,000 units. The consensus was 668,000. Both median and average sales prices were down for the second straight

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/25/3466

Credit Score Changes on Hold; Prices Reinvigorated; Rates Higher Still

The old credit score models are safe for the time being, despite a belief that they disregard millions of creditworthy Americans, leaving them unable to be scored , and thus virtually unable to buy a home. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced on Monday that it is suspending the initiative to update the credit score model used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the GSEs). As recently as this spring FHFA had said that a decision about scoring models would be made this year. In a press release the agency said it is shifting its focus from the update to implementation of Section 310 of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (Public Law 115-174) enacted in May. The Act, which sought to undo many of the changes made by the Dodd Frank Wall Street Reform and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/24/3464

Rates Surge to 1-Month Highs; Existing Sales Fall Despite Inventories; Freddie Sees Stronger 2nd Half

Mortgage rates rose today at the quickest pace in months, ultimately hitting the highest levels since June 25th for the average lender. While neither of those are "fun" facts for fans of low rates, they are made slightly more palatable by the nature of the recent range. Specifically, rates hadn't moved very much since late June. The average mortgage seeker will not have seen a change in their quoted interest rate during that time (the only adjustments have been to upfront closing costs/credits). The point is that it didn't require a huge move to be able to say "highest in a month" or "fastest pace in months." Caveats aside, today's rate spike confirms that a recent consolidation in the bond market is now over . The risk is that by breaking to the upside, rates have signaled that we're in for

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/23/3462

Homeowners’ Favorite Décor Pieces by State

What’s your state’s favorite home accessory—centerpiece bowls, trays, throw blankets, vases, or more? Take a look at this chart from a survey conducted by Next Day Blinds to find out.

from
http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/StyledStagedSold/~3/bcD94AHlRFM/

Economic Growth Moderates in Early 2018 Labor Market Continues to Be Strong

Exceptionally low housing supply and weaker affordability slowed the housing market in the first half of 2018, but total sales activity should still slightly top year-ago levels. More

from
http://www.freddiemac.com/research/outlook/20180723_economic_growth.html?attr=rssEHR

Bonds Relieved by As-Expected GDP; Freddie Portfolio up 3.8%; Volatility Next Week?

The consensus for today's GDP reading among forecasters was for a big increase to 4.1% or 4.2% depending on who does your data aggregation. Either way, that's a big jump from the previous reading of 2.0% (now revised to 2.2%). When key data is seen rising that much, economists have a tendency to undershoot the jump. Traders know it. As such, they get in position for an even bigger move than the forecast suggests. When GDP merely came in "as-expected," bonds breathed a sigh of relief with a modest rally. It was more of a token, really, as yields never threatened yesterday's lows. Stocks confirmed the anticipation with by selling-off at the open (i.e. stocks were also expecting a bigger number, and thus gave up ground when it was "only" 4.1%). Next week is a minefield of data and events for bonds

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/27/3470

Mortgage Rates Still Trending Higher; Under 35 Homeownership Rate Rising Fastest

Mortgage rates were higher again today, depending on the lender. Some lenders had already adjusted yesterday's rate sheets for late day market weakness the followed the US/EU trade announcement (i.e. trade war averted). Lenders who didn't adjust rates yesterday were simply left to do so this morning. Markets have worked through most of this week's big ticket events (the things that could influence the bonds that influence mortgage rates). On 4 out of the past 4 days , we've seen the highest intraday bond yields move slightly higher. This forms a negative trend that should keep mortgage seekers feeling defensive when it comes to locking vs floating--especially in light of the fact that this is the first noticeable trend in more than a month. In other words, rates were exceptionally sideways

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/26/3468

New Home Sales Down 5.3 Percent; Rates Under Pressure After Tariff News; Mortgage Apps' Summertime Sadness

New home sales have adopted an up and down pattern since March and continued in that trend in June. The U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development report that those sales were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 631,00 units. This is down 5.3 percent from May's revised sales of 666,000. That is a substantial downward revision from the 689,000 units and 6.7 percent increase originally reported for the month. Sales are hanging on to a 2.4 percent improvement over the June 2017 estimate of 616,000. Analysts had expected sales to retreat but were looking for a much less definitive move. Forecasts from those polled by Econoday fell in the range of 590,000 to 685,000 units. The consensus was 668,000. Both median and average sales prices were down for the second straight

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/25/3466

Credit Score Changes on Hold; Prices Reinvigorated; Rates Higher Still

The old credit score models are safe for the time being, despite a belief that they disregard millions of creditworthy Americans, leaving them unable to be scored , and thus virtually unable to buy a home. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced on Monday that it is suspending the initiative to update the credit score model used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the GSEs). As recently as this spring FHFA had said that a decision about scoring models would be made this year. In a press release the agency said it is shifting its focus from the update to implementation of Section 310 of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (Public Law 115-174) enacted in May. The Act, which sought to undo many of the changes made by the Dodd Frank Wall Street Reform and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/24/3464

Rates Surge to 1-Month Highs; Existing Sales Fall Despite Inventories; Freddie Sees Stronger 2nd Half

Mortgage rates rose today at the quickest pace in months, ultimately hitting the highest levels since June 25th for the average lender. While neither of those are "fun" facts for fans of low rates, they are made slightly more palatable by the nature of the recent range. Specifically, rates hadn't moved very much since late June. The average mortgage seeker will not have seen a change in their quoted interest rate during that time (the only adjustments have been to upfront closing costs/credits). The point is that it didn't require a huge move to be able to say "highest in a month" or "fastest pace in months." Caveats aside, today's rate spike confirms that a recent consolidation in the bond market is now over . The risk is that by breaking to the upside, rates have signaled that we're in for

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/23/3462

Economic Growth Moderates in Early 2018 Labor Market Continues to Be Strong

Exceptionally low housing supply and weaker affordability slowed the housing market in the first half of 2018, but total sales activity should still slightly top year-ago levels. More

from
http://www.freddiemac.com/research/outlook/20180723_economic_growth.html?attr=rssEHR

NAHB Sees Lopsided Growth in Housing Starts; Fannie Turning Bearish; Rates Behind the Curve

In another dive into data from the Census Bureau's Survey of Construction (SOC), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that one third of the nine census divisions and thus 21 states were responsible for 60 percent of single family housing starts last year. The South Atlantic division encompasses the coastal states stretching from Delaware to Florida plus West Virginia and accounted for 260,000 of the 848,000 starts last year. The West South Central division was in second place and the Mountain division third. The number of starts in 2017 was up 9 percent from 2016 and four divisions outpaced the national rate; the Pacific division at 17 percent, West North Central at 11 percent, South Atlantic and Mountain divisions at 10 percent each. Growth decelerated from the 2016 rate

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/20/3460

First Time Buyers - Show 494

Real Estate Today Radio - SHOW 494

On this week's Real Estate Today, it's our special show "First Time Buyers."

This Week's Show Includes:
- Top News Of The Week
- Finding a REALTOR®
- Don't be a FSBO
- Hot Or Not
- Smart Home Technology
- Get REALTOR(R)

Become a part of the community at http://retradio.com!

from
http://retradio.com

Mortgage Rates Still Trending Higher; Under 35 Homeownership Rate Rising Fastest

Mortgage rates were higher again today, depending on the lender. Some lenders had already adjusted yesterday's rate sheets for late day market weakness the followed the US/EU trade announcement (i.e. trade war averted). Lenders who didn't adjust rates yesterday were simply left to do so this morning. Markets have worked through most of this week's big ticket events (the things that could influence the bonds that influence mortgage rates). On 4 out of the past 4 days , we've seen the highest intraday bond yields move slightly higher. This forms a negative trend that should keep mortgage seekers feeling defensive when it comes to locking vs floating--especially in light of the fact that this is the first noticeable trend in more than a month. In other words, rates were exceptionally sideways

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/26/3468

Round-up: Broad Ripple bike-shop fixture launches expansion plan

Also, the latest on Natural Born Juicers, Smallcakes Cupcakery and Creamer, Garfield Brewery, Bonna Station, Turchetti's, Nespresso, Chuck E. Cheese, Le Peep and more.

from
https://www.ibj.com/blogs/19-property-lines/post/69815-round-up-broad-ripple-bike-shop-fixture-launches-expansion-plan

Half of All U.S. Homes Are More Valuable than Pre-Recession Peak

In seven of the 35 largest U.S. housing markets, more than 95 percent of homes are worth more than their peak value during the housing boom

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-26-Half-of-All-U-S-Homes-Are-More-Valuable-than-Pre-Recession-Peak

Economic Growth Moderates in Early 2018 Labor Market Continues to Be Strong

Exceptionally low housing supply and weaker affordability slowed the housing market in the first half of 2018, but total sales activity should still slightly top year-ago levels. More

from
http://www.freddiemac.com/research/outlook/20180723_economic_growth.html?attr=rssEHR

New Home Sales Down 5.3 Percent; Rates Under Pressure After Tariff News; Mortgage Apps' Summertime Sadness

New home sales have adopted an up and down pattern since March and continued in that trend in June. The U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development report that those sales were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 631,00 units. This is down 5.3 percent from May's revised sales of 666,000. That is a substantial downward revision from the 689,000 units and 6.7 percent increase originally reported for the month. Sales are hanging on to a 2.4 percent improvement over the June 2017 estimate of 616,000. Analysts had expected sales to retreat but were looking for a much less definitive move. Forecasts from those polled by Econoday fell in the range of 590,000 to 685,000 units. The consensus was 668,000. Both median and average sales prices were down for the second straight

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/25/3466

Credit Score Changes on Hold; Prices Reinvigorated; Rates Higher Still

The old credit score models are safe for the time being, despite a belief that they disregard millions of creditworthy Americans, leaving them unable to be scored , and thus virtually unable to buy a home. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced on Monday that it is suspending the initiative to update the credit score model used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the GSEs). As recently as this spring FHFA had said that a decision about scoring models would be made this year. In a press release the agency said it is shifting its focus from the update to implementation of Section 310 of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (Public Law 115-174) enacted in May. The Act, which sought to undo many of the changes made by the Dodd Frank Wall Street Reform and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/24/3464

Economic Growth Moderates in Early 2018 Labor Market Continues to Be Strong

Exceptionally low housing supply and weaker affordability slowed the housing market in the first half of 2018, but total sales activity should still slightly top year-ago levels. More

from
http://www.freddiemac.com/research/outlook/20180723_economic_growth.html?attr=rssEHR

Boston and Seattle Top Zillow's List of Places Where it Pays to Move Farther Out

Zillow and HERE Technologies analyzed 34 of the largest U.S. metros to see how much homeowners could save if they were willing to add an extra 15 minutes to their commute

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-24-Boston-and-Seattle-Top-Zillows-List-of-Places-Where-it-Pays-to-Move-Farther-Out

Rates Surge to 1-Month Highs; Existing Sales Fall Despite Inventories; Freddie Sees Stronger 2nd Half

Mortgage rates rose today at the quickest pace in months, ultimately hitting the highest levels since June 25th for the average lender. While neither of those are "fun" facts for fans of low rates, they are made slightly more palatable by the nature of the recent range. Specifically, rates hadn't moved very much since late June. The average mortgage seeker will not have seen a change in their quoted interest rate during that time (the only adjustments have been to upfront closing costs/credits). The point is that it didn't require a huge move to be able to say "highest in a month" or "fastest pace in months." Caveats aside, today's rate spike confirms that a recent consolidation in the bond market is now over . The risk is that by breaking to the upside, rates have signaled that we're in for

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/23/3462

Economic Growth Moderates in Early 2018 Labor Market Continues to Be Strong

Exceptionally low housing supply and weaker affordability slowed the housing market in the first half of 2018, but total sales activity should still slightly top year-ago levels. More

from
http://www.freddiemac.com/research/outlook/20180723_economic_growth.html?attr=rssEHR

Homeowners’ Favorite Décor Pieces by State

What’s your state’s favorite home accessory—centerpiece bowls, trays, throw blankets, vases, or more? Take a look at this chart from a survey conducted by Next Day Blinds to find out.

from
http://styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org/2018/07/23/homeowners-favorite-decor-items-by-state/

Secret of the Pros - Show 493

Real Estate Today Radio - SHOW 493

On this week's Real Estate Today, it's our special show "Secret of the Pros."

This Week's Show Includes:
- Top News Of The Week
- Keep Your Eyes on the Prize
- Burying St Joseph
- Hot Or Not
- Smart Home Technology
- Get REALTOR(R)

Become a part of the community at http://retradio.com!

from
http://retradio.com

NAHB Sees Lopsided Growth in Housing Starts; Fannie Turning Bearish; Rates Behind the Curve

In another dive into data from the Census Bureau's Survey of Construction (SOC), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that one third of the nine census divisions and thus 21 states were responsible for 60 percent of single family housing starts last year. The South Atlantic division encompasses the coastal states stretching from Delaware to Florida plus West Virginia and accounted for 260,000 of the 848,000 starts last year. The West South Central division was in second place and the Mountain division third. The number of starts in 2017 was up 9 percent from 2016 and four divisions outpaced the national rate; the Pacific division at 17 percent, West North Central at 11 percent, South Atlantic and Mountain divisions at 10 percent each. Growth decelerated from the 2016 rate

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/20/3460

FHFA Ruled Unconstitutional; LIBOR Replacement; Ellie's Origination Stats

Yet another federal court has rebuffed shareholders hoping to recover some value from their investments in the government sponsored enterprises (GSEs) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. A three-judge panel for the Fifth Circuit (Texas) Court of Appeals refused to stop the practice of net worth sweeps required of the GSEs, but, the plaintiffs, whether their intention or not, did succeed in getting the structure of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) ruled unconstitutional. FHFA v Collins was an appeal of a suit filed by GSE stockholders J. Patrick Collins, Marcus J. Liotta, and William M. Hitchcock in October 2016. It was the latest in a long stream of lawsuits against the government regarding its 2008 seizure of the GSEs. The original suit named FHFA and its current director Melvin H. Watt and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/19/3458

Housing Permits Soften, Starts Plummet; Millennial Homeownership Headwinds; Refi Apps Improve

All three measures of residential construction activity performed poorly in June , and the two most closely watched numbers, construction permits and housing starts, fell short of their June 2017 numbers. Despite the monthly and year-over-year declines, the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development report that activity in the first half of 2018 is still ahead of the same period last year. The worst numbers were for privately authorized housing starts. They failed to hold on to their gain in May, dropping 12.3 percent to 1,173,000 units. May's estimate of 1,337,000 units was revised down from the original 1,350,000. The June estimate fell below the June 2017 pace by 4.2 percent. The results didn't come close to meeting expectations. Analysts polled by Econoday had

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/18/3456

Builders Confident but Worried Over Costs; Same Old Story For Rates; Homebuilding Geography

As analysts had expected, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) remained at 68 this month. The reading still indicates a strong level of builder confidence in the new home market, but the HMI has been relatively static for months, moving within a two-point range, 68 to 70, since March. NAHB surveys its new home building members monthly on their attitude toward the market. They are asked to grade their perceptions of the current market and the market they expect over the next six months as "good," "fair" or "poor." The survey also asks builders to rate traffic of prospective buyers as "high to very high," "average" or "low to very low." Scores for each component are then used to calculate a seasonally adjusted index where any number over 50 indicates

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/17/3454

Mortgage Rates Edge Higher; Builder Timeline Heavily Dependent on Location and Purpose

Mortgage rates fell to their lowest levels since late May as of last Friday. Today, then, would be the 2nd best day since late May. Rates edged slightly higher to begin the new week as bond markets (which underlie rates) came under modest pressure for several relatively inconsequential reasons. The net effect was a small adjustment in the upfront costs associated with prevailing rates. In other words, the actual interest rate governing your monthly mortgage payment hasn't changed in weeks, but the upfront costs tied to that rate are slightly higher for lenders today compared to last Friday. Loan Originator Perspective My clients and i continue to favor locking in once within 30 days of closing. Only loans i would consider floating would be those that can lock on a shorter time tomorrow or if

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/16/3453

NAHB Sees Lopsided Growth in Housing Starts; Fannie Turning Bearish; Rates Behind the Curve

In another dive into data from the Census Bureau's Survey of Construction (SOC), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that one third of the nine census divisions and thus 21 states were responsible for 60 percent of single family housing starts last year. The South Atlantic division encompasses the coastal states stretching from Delaware to Florida plus West Virginia and accounted for 260,000 of the 848,000 starts last year. The West South Central division was in second place and the Mountain division third. The number of starts in 2017 was up 9 percent from 2016 and four divisions outpaced the national rate; the Pacific division at 17 percent, West North Central at 11 percent, South Atlantic and Mountain divisions at 10 percent each. Growth decelerated from the 2016 rate

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/20/3460

Secret of the Pros - Show 493

Real Estate Today Radio - SHOW 493

On this week's Real Estate Today, it's our special show "Secret of the Pros."

This Week's Show Includes:
- Top News Of The Week
- Keep Your Eyes on the Prize
- Burying St Joseph
- Hot Or Not
- Smart Home Technology
- Get REALTOR(R)

Become a part of the community at http://retradio.com!

from
http://retradio.com

FHFA Ruled Unconstitutional; LIBOR Replacement; Ellie's Origination Stats

Yet another federal court has rebuffed shareholders hoping to recover some value from their investments in the government sponsored enterprises (GSEs) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. A three-judge panel for the Fifth Circuit (Texas) Court of Appeals refused to stop the practice of net worth sweeps required of the GSEs, but, the plaintiffs, whether their intention or not, did succeed in getting the structure of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) ruled unconstitutional. FHFA v Collins was an appeal of a suit filed by GSE stockholders J. Patrick Collins, Marcus J. Liotta, and William M. Hitchcock in October 2016. It was the latest in a long stream of lawsuits against the government regarding its 2008 seizure of the GSEs. The original suit named FHFA and its current director Melvin H. Watt and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/19/3458

Construction begins on 208-unit apartment project near White River

Strategic Capital Partners and Goodwill Industries are partnering on complex intended to diversify downtown rental market.

from
https://www.ibj.com/blogs/19-property-lines/post/69739-construction-begins-on-208-unit-apartment-project-near-white-river

Housing Permits Soften, Starts Plummet; Millennial Homeownership Headwinds; Refi Apps Improve

All three measures of residential construction activity performed poorly in June , and the two most closely watched numbers, construction permits and housing starts, fell short of their June 2017 numbers. Despite the monthly and year-over-year declines, the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development report that activity in the first half of 2018 is still ahead of the same period last year. The worst numbers were for privately authorized housing starts. They failed to hold on to their gain in May, dropping 12.3 percent to 1,173,000 units. May's estimate of 1,337,000 units was revised down from the original 1,350,000. The June estimate fell below the June 2017 pace by 4.2 percent. The results didn't come close to meeting expectations. Analysts polled by Econoday had

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/18/3456

Zillow to Expand Buying and Selling Homes to Atlanta

Zillow Offers expanding to its third market in the fall of 2018, its first in the Eastern U.S.

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-18-Zillow-to-Expand-Buying-and-Selling-Homes-to-Atlanta

Builders Confident but Worried Over Costs; Same Old Story For Rates; Homebuilding Geography

As analysts had expected, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) remained at 68 this month. The reading still indicates a strong level of builder confidence in the new home market, but the HMI has been relatively static for months, moving within a two-point range, 68 to 70, since March. NAHB surveys its new home building members monthly on their attitude toward the market. They are asked to grade their perceptions of the current market and the market they expect over the next six months as "good," "fair" or "poor." The survey also asks builders to rate traffic of prospective buyers as "high to very high," "average" or "low to very low." Scores for each component are then used to calculate a seasonally adjusted index where any number over 50 indicates

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/17/3454

Black Renters Could Afford 16 Percent of Rentals in 2017

Black and Hispanic renters could afford, at most, 5 percent of rentals in Boston, New York, Los Angeles and Miami without spending more than 30 percent of their income on rent

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-17-Black-Renters-Could-Afford-16-Percent-of-Rentals-in-2017

Mortgage Rates Edge Higher; Builder Timeline Heavily Dependent on Location and Purpose

Mortgage rates fell to their lowest levels since late May as of last Friday. Today, then, would be the 2nd best day since late May. Rates edged slightly higher to begin the new week as bond markets (which underlie rates) came under modest pressure for several relatively inconsequential reasons. The net effect was a small adjustment in the upfront costs associated with prevailing rates. In other words, the actual interest rate governing your monthly mortgage payment hasn't changed in weeks, but the upfront costs tied to that rate are slightly higher for lenders today compared to last Friday. Loan Originator Perspective My clients and i continue to favor locking in once within 30 days of closing. Only loans i would consider floating would be those that can lock on a shorter time tomorrow or if

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/16/3453

Ten Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home - Show 492

Real Estate Today Radio - SHOW 492

On this week's Real Estate Today, it's our special show "Ten Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home."

This Week's Show Includes:
- Top News Of The Week
- How Much is Your Home Really Worth?
- The Passage of Time
- Hot Or Not
- Smart Home Technology
- Get REALTOR(R)

Become a part of the community at http://retradio.com!

from
http://retradio.com

Low Rates, But There's a Catch; Get Used to Coconuts

Mortgage rates fell by an observable amount today-- one of the few times they've done so in recent weeks. Technically, today's average lender is offering the best we've seen since May 31st. That sounds pretty great, right?! Unfortunately, there's a fairly big catch. While today's rates are indeed the best in a month and a half, the range during that time has been so excruciatingly narrow that most prospective mortgage borrowers will find the distinction fairly meaningless. In almost all cases, the actual NOTE rate at the top of your loan quote will be the same as it has been for weeks. The only change in lenders' rate sheets is in the upfront cost associated with that rate. In other words, if you'd seen a quote of 4.75% with 0 points yesterday, today's quote would be more like 4.75% with a

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/13/3451

Housing Costs Decelerating; Construction Costs Rising; Rates Can't Find Inspiration

While the Labor Department's Employment Situation Report for June showed wages plodding along at a 2.7 percent annual increase, unchanged from May, it is still being outstripped by rising costs, especially for housing. Today's Consumer Price Index (CPI) report shows consumer costs overall were up 2.9 percent with the shelter portion rising 3.4 percent over the last 12 months. Shelter is one of the categories in the CPI's "market basket," the goods and services that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) considers necessary for day-to-day living. The CPI does not include housing units which it views as capital or investment rather than consumption items. Shelter is viewed as a "service" provided by that investment and is thus a consumption item. The cost of shelter is broken down into two components

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/12/3449

Tappable Equity Skyrockets; HELOCs Not Following; Rates Calm Ahead of Key Data

This month's Mortgage Monitor Report from Black Knight, Inc. is again about equity, but this time with a twist regarding the way homeowners are treating it. The company says that the tappable equity held by homeowners increased by $820 billion dollars over the 12 months that ended in March, $380 billion in the first quarter of 2018 alone. Those numbers equate to 16.5 percent growth year-over-year, and 7 percent for the quarter. Equity growth is generally highest in the first and second quarters of the year, but the first quarter growth this year was up 30 percent from the same quarter in 2017. It was the highest single-quarter increase recorded by Black Knight since it began keeping records in 2005. Tappable equity is the share of equity that a homeowner can borrow before reaching a maximum

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/11/3447

Jumbo Guidelines Loosening Quickest; Low Foreclosure Inventory; Rates Edge Higher

The Mortgage Bankers Association attributed an increase in its Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) last month to increased competition among lenders for the jumbo prime mortgage market. MBA said its index increased 0.2 percent in June to 181.0. An increase in the Index indicates that credit standards are loosening. Due to competition which MBA's Chief Economist and Senior Vice President Mike Fratantoni categorized as "fierce," the Jumbo MCAI rose 9.3 percent from May to June and is now over 300. The Index was benchmarked to 100 in March 2012. The increase in that index component was offset by a decline in the Government MCAI which was down 3.9 percent. Fratantoni attributed recent tightening in government lending, which put that index, at its lowest point since the summer of 2016, to

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/10/3445

Important Changes to Condo Loans; Strong Housing Sentiment Showing Cracks

Fannie Mae recently made some fairly big changes to the condo underwriting process. While it may not affect everyone in the market for a condo, it will make all the difference for others. MND community member Ted Rood provided this excellent overview: If you've ever financed a condo, you're likely familiar with the term "condo reviews". These reviews include analysis of condo complexes' financials and insurance, breakdowns on units' ownership and residency, the percentage of owners in arrears on Home Owners' Association (HOA) dues, any pending legal actions, and more. Lenders must obtain them on every condo loan, in one of two different variations: "limited" and "full" reviews. If complexes don't meet the requirements, buyers in that HOA can't get financing. Far more complexes fail full reviews

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/9/3443

The Secret to Kitchen Envy: A Stylish Island

By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine

Home buyers love kitchen islands. It’s become a gathering spot for not just cooking but also eating, working, and socializing. As the island continues to gain stature in kitchens, homeowners are finding ways to spotlight it with contrasting shades or even different countertops to make it the focal point.

Check out some examples from designers featured at Houzz, which show how the kitchen island can become the showpiece of your space.

An island of a different color

Photo by JJP Construction – Look for kitchen design inspiration

Furniture-styled islands

Photo by Garrison Hullinger Interior Design Inc. – Browse kitchen ideas

Contrasting countertops

Photo by Martha O’Hara Interiors – Search kitchen design ideas

Lighting it up

Photo by William Byrd Homes – More kitchen photos

Plenty of seating

Photo by celia welch interiors – Browse kitchen photos

from
http://styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org/2018/07/16/turn-the-kitchen-island-into-your-focal-point/

Low Rates, But There's a Catch; Get Used to Coconuts

Mortgage rates fell by an observable amount today-- one of the few times they've done so in recent weeks. Technically, today's average lender is offering the best we've seen since May 31st. That sounds pretty great, right?! Unfortunately, there's a fairly big catch. While today's rates are indeed the best in a month and a half, the range during that time has been so excruciatingly narrow that most prospective mortgage borrowers will find the distinction fairly meaningless. In almost all cases, the actual NOTE rate at the top of your loan quote will be the same as it has been for weeks. The only change in lenders' rate sheets is in the upfront cost associated with that rate. In other words, if you'd seen a quote of 4.75% with 0 points yesterday, today's quote would be more like 4.75% with a

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/13/3451

Housing Costs Decelerating; Construction Costs Rising; Rates Can't Find Inspiration

While the Labor Department's Employment Situation Report for June showed wages plodding along at a 2.7 percent annual increase, unchanged from May, it is still being outstripped by rising costs, especially for housing. Today's Consumer Price Index (CPI) report shows consumer costs overall were up 2.9 percent with the shelter portion rising 3.4 percent over the last 12 months. Shelter is one of the categories in the CPI's "market basket," the goods and services that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) considers necessary for day-to-day living. The CPI does not include housing units which it views as capital or investment rather than consumption items. Shelter is viewed as a "service" provided by that investment and is thus a consumption item. The cost of shelter is broken down into two components

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/12/3449

Tappable Equity Skyrockets; HELOCs Not Following; Rates Calm Ahead of Key Data

This month's Mortgage Monitor Report from Black Knight, Inc. is again about equity, but this time with a twist regarding the way homeowners are treating it. The company says that the tappable equity held by homeowners increased by $820 billion dollars over the 12 months that ended in March, $380 billion in the first quarter of 2018 alone. Those numbers equate to 16.5 percent growth year-over-year, and 7 percent for the quarter. Equity growth is generally highest in the first and second quarters of the year, but the first quarter growth this year was up 30 percent from the same quarter in 2017. It was the highest single-quarter increase recorded by Black Knight since it began keeping records in 2005. Tappable equity is the share of equity that a homeowner can borrow before reaching a maximum

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/11/3447

Jumbo Guidelines Loosening Quickest; Low Foreclosure Inventory; Rates Edge Higher

The Mortgage Bankers Association attributed an increase in its Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) last month to increased competition among lenders for the jumbo prime mortgage market. MBA said its index increased 0.2 percent in June to 181.0. An increase in the Index indicates that credit standards are loosening. Due to competition which MBA's Chief Economist and Senior Vice President Mike Fratantoni categorized as "fierce," the Jumbo MCAI rose 9.3 percent from May to June and is now over 300. The Index was benchmarked to 100 in March 2012. The increase in that index component was offset by a decline in the Government MCAI which was down 3.9 percent. Fratantoni attributed recent tightening in government lending, which put that index, at its lowest point since the summer of 2016, to

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/10/3445

Important Changes to Condo Loans; Strong Housing Sentiment Showing Cracks

Fannie Mae recently made some fairly big changes to the condo underwriting process. While it may not affect everyone in the market for a condo, it will make all the difference for others. MND community member Ted Rood provided this excellent overview: If you've ever financed a condo, you're likely familiar with the term "condo reviews". These reviews include analysis of condo complexes' financials and insurance, breakdowns on units' ownership and residency, the percentage of owners in arrears on Home Owners' Association (HOA) dues, any pending legal actions, and more. Lenders must obtain them on every condo loan, in one of two different variations: "limited" and "full" reviews. If complexes don't meet the requirements, buyers in that HOA can't get financing. Far more complexes fail full reviews

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/9/3443

Staged to Sell: A Country Estate in Gaithersburg, Md.

Home stager: Libby Paulson with Preferred Staging

The home: Paulson staged this remodeled, single-family country estate in Gaithersburg, Md., which featured cathedral ceilings, a two-story stone fireplace, gourmet kitchen, formal living and dining room, two staircases, and a walkout basement with full kitchen and bath. The home is listed at $709,500.

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Paulson’s tips:

1. Greenery is a Must:Greenery is considered natures neutral. It provides a space harmony, freshness and energy. Greenery can be incorporated into a staging as an accent color or as a way to soften and welcome someone into a room. Some great examples are fiddle fig plants or ferns of all types as well as large leaves arranged in a vase.

2. Pillows are required: If you are looking for an easy, affordable way to make your home ready to sell try adding some throw pillows. Using some trendy pillows you can transform any space. They also help large furniture stand out and complement and highlight the home’s structural features. So choose pillows that complement the home’s aesthetic and style, and don’t be afraid of adding color as long as it adds style. A quick tip is use solid color pillows if furniture has a busy print or patterned pillows when working with solid color furniture. For an upscale look use pillows with subtle texture such as linen or tweed.

3. Bookshelves are not just for books:The first thing to remember is you don’t need to fill each self. When staging bookshelves try to add items to make the eyes look across, around and down. Limit the amount of books and use pairs of items.

 

Have a home you recently staged that you’d like to show off here at Styled Staged & Sold? Submit your staging photos for consideration, along with three to five of your best spruce-up tips. Contact Melissa Dittmann Tracey at mtracey@realtors.org.

from
http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/StyledStagedSold/~3/_g90aGDAZdA/

Low Rates, But There's a Catch; Get Used to Coconuts

Mortgage rates fell by an observable amount today-- one of the few times they've done so in recent weeks. Technically, today's average lender is offering the best we've seen since May 31st. That sounds pretty great, right?! Unfortunately, there's a fairly big catch. While today's rates are indeed the best in a month and a half, the range during that time has been so excruciatingly narrow that most prospective mortgage borrowers will find the distinction fairly meaningless. In almost all cases, the actual NOTE rate at the top of your loan quote will be the same as it has been for weeks. The only change in lenders' rate sheets is in the upfront cost associated with that rate. In other words, if you'd seen a quote of 4.75% with 0 points yesterday, today's quote would be more like 4.75% with a

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/13/3451

Ten Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home - Show 492

Real Estate Today Radio - SHOW 492

On this week's Real Estate Today, it's our special show "Ten Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home."

This Week's Show Includes:
- Top News Of The Week
- How Much is Your Home Really Worth?
- The Passage of Time
- Hot Or Not
- Smart Home Technology
- Get REALTOR(R)

Become a part of the community at http://retradio.com!

from
http://retradio.com

Buyers Are Paying a Smaller Premium for Waterfront Living

Waterfront homes sold for a 36 percent premium in the first quarter of 2018; in the second quarter of 2012, the premium was 54 percent

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-10-Buyers-Are-Paying-a-Smaller-Premium-for-Waterfront-Living

Schlotzsky's plots return to Indianapolis market with fresh concept

After leaving more than a decade ago, it's returning with a new business model and new concept. Also this week: Buffalo Wings and Rings, Tie Dye Grill, The Donut Experiment, and Tony's Steaks and Seafood.

from
https://www.ibj.com/blogs/19-property-lines/post/69586-schlotzskys-plots-return-to-indianapolis-market-with-fresh-concept

Buyers Are Paying a Smaller Premium for Waterfront Living

Waterfront homes sold for a 36 percent premium in the first quarter of 2018; in the second quarter of 2012, the premium was 54 percent

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-10-Buyers-Are-Paying-a-Smaller-Premium-for-Waterfront-Living

Staged to Sell: A Country Estate in Gaithersburg, Md.

Home stager: Libby Paulson with Preferred Staging

The home: Paulson staged this remodeled, single-family country estate in Gaithersburg, Md., which featured cathedral ceilings, a two-story stone fireplace, gourmet kitchen, formal living and dining room, two staircases, and a walkout basement with full kitchen and bath. The home is listed at $709,500.

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Paulson’s tips:

1. Greenery is a Must:Greenery is considered natures neutral. It provides a space harmony, freshness and energy. Greenery can be incorporated into a staging as an accent color or as a way to soften and welcome someone into a room. Some great examples are fiddle fig plants or ferns of all types as well as large leaves arranged in a vase.

2. Pillows are required: If you are looking for an easy, affordable way to make your home ready to sell try adding some throw pillows. Using some trendy pillows you can transform any space. They also help large furniture stand out and complement and highlight the home’s structural features. So choose pillows that complement the home’s aesthetic and style, and don’t be afraid of adding color as long as it adds style. A quick tip is use solid color pillows if furniture has a busy print or patterned pillows when working with solid color furniture. For an upscale look use pillows with subtle texture such as linen or tweed.

3. Bookshelves are not just for books:The first thing to remember is you don’t need to fill each self. When staging bookshelves try to add items to make the eyes look across, around and down. Limit the amount of books and use pairs of items.

 

Have a home you recently staged that you’d like to show off here at Styled Staged & Sold? Submit your staging photos for consideration, along with three to five of your best spruce-up tips. Contact Melissa Dittmann Tracey at mtracey@realtors.org.

from
http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/StyledStagedSold/~3/_g90aGDAZdA/

Housing Costs Decelerating; Construction Costs Rising; Rates Can't Find Inspiration

While the Labor Department's Employment Situation Report for June showed wages plodding along at a 2.7 percent annual increase, unchanged from May, it is still being outstripped by rising costs, especially for housing. Today's Consumer Price Index (CPI) report shows consumer costs overall were up 2.9 percent with the shelter portion rising 3.4 percent over the last 12 months. Shelter is one of the categories in the CPI's "market basket," the goods and services that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) considers necessary for day-to-day living. The CPI does not include housing units which it views as capital or investment rather than consumption items. Shelter is viewed as a "service" provided by that investment and is thus a consumption item. The cost of shelter is broken down into two components

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/12/3449

Schlotzsky's plots return to Indianapolis market

After leaving more than a decade ago, it's returning with a new business model and new concept. Also this week: Buffalo Wings and Rings, Tie Dye Grill, The Donut Experiment, and Tony's Steaks and Seafood.

from
https://www.ibj.com/blogs/19-property-lines/post/69586-schlotzskys-plots-return-to-indianapolis-market

Tappable Equity Skyrockets; HELOCs Not Following; Rates Calm Ahead of Key Data

This month's Mortgage Monitor Report from Black Knight, Inc. is again about equity, but this time with a twist regarding the way homeowners are treating it. The company says that the tappable equity held by homeowners increased by $820 billion dollars over the 12 months that ended in March, $380 billion in the first quarter of 2018 alone. Those numbers equate to 16.5 percent growth year-over-year, and 7 percent for the quarter. Equity growth is generally highest in the first and second quarters of the year, but the first quarter growth this year was up 30 percent from the same quarter in 2017. It was the highest single-quarter increase recorded by Black Knight since it began keeping records in 2005. Tappable equity is the share of equity that a homeowner can borrow before reaching a maximum

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/11/3447

Buyers Are Paying a Smaller Premium for Waterfront Living

Waterfront homes sold for a 36 percent premium in the first quarter of 2018; in the second quarter of 2012, the premium was 54 percent

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-10-Buyers-Are-Paying-a-Smaller-Premium-for-Waterfront-Living

Jumbo Guidelines Loosening Quickest; Low Foreclosure Inventory; Rates Edge Higher

The Mortgage Bankers Association attributed an increase in its Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) last month to increased competition among lenders for the jumbo prime mortgage market. MBA said its index increased 0.2 percent in June to 181.0. An increase in the Index indicates that credit standards are loosening. Due to competition which MBA's Chief Economist and Senior Vice President Mike Fratantoni categorized as "fierce," the Jumbo MCAI rose 9.3 percent from May to June and is now over 300. The Index was benchmarked to 100 in March 2012. The increase in that index component was offset by a decline in the Government MCAI which was down 3.9 percent. Fratantoni attributed recent tightening in government lending, which put that index, at its lowest point since the summer of 2016, to

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/10/3445

Buyers Are Paying a Smaller Premium for Waterfront Living

Waterfront homes sold for a 36 percent premium in the first quarter of 2018; in the second quarter of 2012, the premium was 54 percent

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-10-Buyers-Are-Paying-a-Smaller-Premium-for-Waterfront-Living

Important Changes to Condo Loans; Strong Housing Sentiment Showing Cracks

Fannie Mae recently made some fairly big changes to the condo underwriting process. While it may not affect everyone in the market for a condo, it will make all the difference for others. MND community member Ted Rood provided this excellent overview: If you've ever financed a condo, you're likely familiar with the term "condo reviews". These reviews include analysis of condo complexes' financials and insurance, breakdowns on units' ownership and residency, the percentage of owners in arrears on Home Owners' Association (HOA) dues, any pending legal actions, and more. Lenders must obtain them on every condo loan, in one of two different variations: "limited" and "full" reviews. If complexes don't meet the requirements, buyers in that HOA can't get financing. Far more complexes fail full reviews

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/9/3443

Staged to Sell: A Country Estate in Gaithersburg, Md.

Home stager: Libby Paulson with Preferred Staging

The home: Paulson staged this remodeled, single-family country estate in Gaithersburg, Md., which featured cathedral ceilings, a two-story stone fireplace, gourmet kitchen, formal living and dining room, two staircases, and a walkout basement with full kitchen and bath. The home is listed at $709,500.

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Photo credit: Libby Paulson, Preferred Staging

Paulson’s tips:

1. Greenery is a Must:Greenery is considered natures neutral. It provides a space harmony, freshness and energy. Greenery can be incorporated into a staging as an accent color or as a way to soften and welcome someone into a room. Some great examples are fiddle fig plants or ferns of all types as well as large leaves arranged in a vase.

2. Pillows are required: If you are looking for an easy, affordable way to make your home ready to sell try adding some throw pillows. Using some trendy pillows you can transform any space. They also help large furniture stand out and complement and highlight the home’s structural features. So choose pillows that complement the home’s aesthetic and style, and don’t be afraid of adding color as long as it adds style. A quick tip is use solid color pillows if furniture has a busy print or patterned pillows when working with solid color furniture. For an upscale look use pillows with subtle texture such as linen or tweed.

3. Bookshelves are not just for books:The first thing to remember is you don’t need to fill each self. When staging bookshelves try to add items to make the eyes look across, around and down. Limit the amount of books and use pairs of items.

 

Have a home you recently staged that you’d like to show off here at Styled Staged & Sold? Submit your staging photos for consideration, along with three to five of your best spruce-up tips. Contact Melissa Dittmann Tracey at mtracey@realtors.org.

from
http://styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org/2018/07/09/staged-to-sell-a-country-estate-in-gaithersburg-md/

Rates Breathe Sigh of Relief; Headship Rates and What They Tell Us About Housing

Mortgage rates finally fell today--something that's proven elusive since roughly June 15th. Incidentally, that's when financial markets began bracing for the impact of the tariffs that were made official today. In this case, "bracing for impact" meant that stocks and bonds both moved sideways to slightly weaker. Theoretically, there was concern among investors about how today might go in the wake of the U.S. and China each officially imposing billions of dollars of tariffs. In practice, markets weren't too troubled. The absence of drama fueled an impressive stock rally and a modest improvement in bonds. The mixed jobs report also helped interest rates moved slightly lower this morning. Loan Originator Perspective Both MBS and treasuries closed the week at their best levels in a month after

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/6/3439

Staying Cool - Show 491

Real Estate Today Radio - SHOW 491

On this week's Real Estate Today, it's our special show "Staying Cool."

This Week's Show Includes:
- Top News Of The Week
- To AC or not to AC?
- How Hot is Too Hot?
- Hot Or Not
- Smart Home Technology
- Get REALTOR(R)

Become a part of the community at http://retradio.com!

from
http://retradio.com

Central Air Conditioning Commands $5,500 Premium

Buyers are more likely to say air conditioning is essential in their new home than outdoor features like a patio or deck

from
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2018-07-03-Central-Air-Conditioning-Commands-5-500-Premium

Rates Sideways Ahead of Big-Ticket Events; Can A.I. Fix Income Calcs For Mortgages? Funny You Should Ask

Fannie Mae's Lender Sentiment Survey has foreshadowed the growing attention to automating the loan approval process. That survey underlined the extent to which lenders are viewing increased efficiency as key to reversing their declining profitability expectations. Freddie Mac has talked about the growing need for lenders to embed artificial intelligence (AI) into their internal operations and now CoreLogic has jumped in with a specific area in which it sees a need for streamlined software, borrower income verification. CoreLogic researcher Brandon Brahms says any underwriter knows that the processes to approve a borrower is inefficient and time-consumer . While there have been technological improvements, the process still requires some manual data entry, use of spreadsheets, and pencil and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/5/3437

Millennials Still Aren't Home Alone; AI and "Vocational Irony"

Millennials, it is said, are finally moving out on their own, establishing households and buying houses. But, if new research from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is correct, quite a few of them are bucking the trend. Natalia Siniavskaia writes in NAHB's Eye on Housing blog that sharing living quarters with others is still a hallmark of the generation which is now aged 25 to 34, and its popularity is growing. She says that only 4 percent of those who were in that same age group in 1990 shared living quarters with roommates, housemates, and other non-relatives. By 2016 that number had nearly doubled to 7.5 percent. In addition, 21 percent are still living with parents or in-laws compared to 12 percent 28 years ago, and another 5 percent (versus 3 percent in 1990) are living

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/3/3435

Construction Spending Remains Strong Despite Headwinds; Rates Start Lower, End Higher

Construction spending was less robust than April's 1.8 percent gain, but the May numbers came in about where the experts expected them. The Census Bureau said the total value of construction put in place during the month was a seasonally adjusted annual $1.310 billion compared to $1.305 trillion (revised down from $1.31 trillion) the previous month. The May figure was 4.5 percent higher than the annualized construction total in May 2017. On a non-adjusted basis there was a total of 112.72 billion spent during the month. Spending is running 4.3 percent higher than last year on a year-to-date (YTD) basis; $497.1 billion compared to $476.67 billion during the first five months of 2017. Analysts polled by Econoday had forecast that total construction spending would rise 0.6 percent. Predictions

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/2/3433

Housing Costs Take Blame; Rent vs Own; Rates on Autopilot

A current post in Freddie Mac's Insight blog looks again at the decline in homeownership among young adults and tries to determine the role played by rising housing costs. The post is based on recent research by the company's Economic and Housing Research Group headed by Chief Economist Sam Khater. Adults in the age group usually categorized as Millennials (25 to 34) have deferred homebuying as higher prices push it further into the future. The weakening affordability is particularly hard on first-time homebuyers because prices increase the fastest among the lower-priced homes they would typically buy. At the same time, these young adults, who comprise a large share of first-time buyers, are excluded from the benefits of rapidly rising home values. "Unable to buy, many young adults have continued

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/6/29/3429

Staying Cool - Show 491

Real Estate Today Radio - SHOW 491

On this week's Real Estate Today, it's our special show "Staying Cool."

This Week's Show Includes:
- Top News Of The Week
- To AC or not to AC?
- How Hot is Too Hot?
- Hot Or Not
- Smart Home Technology
- Get REALTOR(R)

Become a part of the community at http://retradio.com!

from
http://retradio.com

Rates Sideways Ahead of Big-Ticket Events; Can A.I. Fix Income Calcs For Mortgages? Funny You Should Ask

Fannie Mae's Lender Sentiment Survey has foreshadowed the growing attention to automating the loan approval process. That survey underlined the extent to which lenders are viewing increased efficiency as key to reversing their declining profitability expectations. Freddie Mac has talked about the growing need for lenders to embed artificial intelligence (AI) into their internal operations and now CoreLogic has jumped in with a specific area in which it sees a need for streamlined software, borrower income verification. CoreLogic researcher Brandon Brahms says any underwriter knows that the processes to approve a borrower is inefficient and time-consumer . While there have been technological improvements, the process still requires some manual data entry, use of spreadsheets, and pencil and

from
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/reports/newsletter/2018/7/5/3437

Bankers Life Fieldhouse to convert former Jason's Deli into gift shop

The Jason's Deli, which closed June 29, had been in operation for less than a year.

from
https://www.ibj.com/blogs/19-property-lines/post/69496-bankers-life-fieldhouse-to-convert-former-jasons-deli-into-gift-shop

Locked Out? Are Rising Housing Costs Barring Young Adults from Buying their First Homes?

Freddie Mac research reveals that higher rents and home prices are the primary reason behind the eight percent decrease in the homeownership rate among young adults (under age 35) since the rate's peak in 2004. What does the future hold for tomorrow's young adults? More

from
http://www.freddiemac.com/research/insight/20180628_rising_housing_costs.html?attr=rssEHR