Planning to leave your home to your heirs
Leaving real estate to your heirs can also be a complicated process, so you'll want to make sure you plan accordingly.
Sales above asking price decelerate in 2018
The share of homes sold above asking price in the United States hit a two-year low in December, according to the real estate site Zillow. Although this share fell each month during the second half of 2018, sales above asking price were slightly more...
NAHB: Fewer people say they intend to buy in the next 12 months
Few potential homeowners polled at the end of 2018 said they plan to buy a home in the next 12 months, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Respondents were more likely to cite inventory challenges, and the majority said they were...
Homeowner interest in healthy home trends increases
Homeowners have become increasingly interested in healthy home trends, according to a recent study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University. The report also determined that while remodelers are aware of this trend, they are...
Real estate lingo and acronyms
Real estate ads are usually full of acronyms and terms that are unfamiliar to first-time buyers. Here's a cheat sheet to let you in on the lingo.
The pros and cons of a central vacuum system
A central vacuum system can make it a little easier to clean up your floors. However, it also has a few disadvantages of its own.
Maintaining steam radiators to avoid banging and whistling
The heat might be inefficient or uneven if the system isn't working properly. Radiators can also spring leaks or produce loud hissing or banging noises.
Organizing the junk drawer
It's easy to get into the habit of tossing random objects into the junk drawer, to the point where it becomes difficult to open or shut. A little organization will help declutter the drawer and make it much simpler to find what you're looking for.
NAR optimistic as pending sales slip at the end of 2018
Pending home sales in December fell below the level of activity in 2001, according to the National Association of Realtors. However, the organization remained optimistic that sales will pick up this year after waning during 2018.
Sellers make record profits as homeownership tenure lengthens
The profit a homeowner made on selling their home hit a 12-year high in 2018, according to the real estate data company ATTOM Data Solutions. Part of this trend was attributed to homeowners staying in their homes for longer before selling.
Existing home sales plummet in December
The rate of existing home sales in the United States fell sharply in December, according to the National Association of Realtors. The drop came after two consecutive monthly increases in sales, but also marked the 10th month where sales were slower...
NAR: Non-owners show increasing interest in buying home in 2018
Throughout 2018, people who didn't own a home were increasingly likely to express interest in buying a residence in the future, according to the National Association of Realtors.
Deciding whether to rent or buy when snowbirding
If you're considering this type of seasonal retreat, you'll need to determine what your new living arrangements will be. For some snowbirds, purchasing a second home won't be a problem. Others may find that renting is a more suitable option.
Should you consider an adjustable rate mortgage?
Adjustable rates can provide certain advantages to homebuyers, particularly those who are looking to save some money in the short term. But it's also very important to be aware of the risks of this type of loan.
Homesource
Southeastern Connecticut's guide to homes and home ownership. Buying, selling, landscaping, renovating, organizing, and more! Published: Every Friday
