Blog

According to a new article published in the Huffington Post, the worst cities in which to retire are found in the western and southern parts of the country. Experts suggest that this is due to many factors, but the most common are foreclosure rates, vacancy rates, high crime rates, public transit and air pollution levels.…

Home prices in the U.S. increased in November, jumping 11.8% from November 2012. Home sales have gradually increased nationally over the last 21 months, showing positive signs that the housing market is making a comeback. Home prices, including distressed sales, inched up 0.1% from October 2013 to November 2013. The chief economist for CoreLogic, Mark…

Recently released data states that new home sales in many locations increased during the holidays, a surprise for many as the holidays are usually considered  a slow period for home sales. Experts are hopeful that the positive numbers being reported in numerous locations may be a sign of what’s to come in 2014. The Sacramento…

New economic data just released shows that 2014 has started off on a very positive note. Housing reports shot up, and manufacturing companies released their largest gain in orders in nearly three years. Reports are also showing that consumer confidence has risen considerably, increasing business spending. Additionally, job growth has picked up, and experts expect…

According to Freddie Mac’s mortgage survey, the average fixed-rate mortgage is continuing to see a slight increase. Pending home sales jumped 0.2% last month, and consumer confidence also experienced additional growth as 2013 came to a close. 30-year fixed-rate mortgages averaged approximately 4.53%, up from 4.48% last week, and the average 15-year-fixed rate mortgage increased…

This last year was decidedly positive overall for the housing market, and many experts expect the trend to continue into 2014. Prices, sales, and mortgage rates are all expected to march into the new year on a strong note while slowly increasing throughout the coming year. Housing construction is also expected to improve in 2014.…

Four cities and 13 states will experience an increase in minimum wage starting on January 1, 2014. Most minimum wage increases amount to approximately 15 cents per hour, while other locations such as New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Jersey will see a larger increase. Experts say the jump in minimum wage in certain…

New home sales in the U.S. have taken a slight fall, decreasing 2.1% last month and falling from a five-month high. According to the Commerce Department, sales volume decreased to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 464,000. Although percentages are down from the previous month, November’s rates still exceeded many expectations and remain near a five-year…

A new study has found that some locations may be more desirable than others for baby boomers to live. The study uncovered many factors that play a role in where seniors want to live, such as health care access and climate. Raleigh, NC, Austin, TX, and San Antonio all topped the list for more desirable,…

New data that has been released suggests the housing market will continue to strengthen in 2014. While the predictions for housing market growth are extremely positive, the economy is not expected to expand substantially. Interest rates are expected to remain low, and market purchases will rise in 2014. FBR & Co. said, “financials, particularly banks…