With the housing market in full recovery mode and home values on the rise you might be considering tapping some of the equity in your home. Those considering this option should do their homework first. The time you spend now could save you heartache (and plenty of money) in the future. Take these four steps before signing […]
Tag Archives: Refinance
Mortgage Rates: Expected to Rise but Steady For Now
Mortgage rates held near their recent lows this week, with 30-year, fixed-rate loans averaging 3.59%. Last week, the average rate was 3.58%. A year ago it was 3.65%, according to Freddie Mac. Policymakers at the Fed raised short-term interest rates in December, causing people to worry that mortgage rates would rise, too. Thus far they […]
How to Fight and Avoid a Low Appraisal
Thinking of buying or selling a home? Even when both sides agree on a price, the deal could fall apart thanks to an under-appraisal. Short appraisals typically arise in a declining housing market because the lack of recent comparable area homes sales, or “comps,” making it difficult for appraisers to determine the current market value […]