Foreclosures are rising, but numbers remain well below the levels seen during the 2008 crash. Current mortgage delinquencies are stable overall, with FHA borrowers more affected by economic shifts. Experts don’t anticipate a crisis, but monitoring is essential. Homeowners facing hardship have options, including repayment plans or selling to avoid foreclosure.
Tag Archives: finance
Many Veterans Don’t Know about This VA Home Loan Benefit
VA home loans have aided Veterans in purchasing homes for 80 years, yet only 30% are aware of the benefit of zero down payment. This program offers numerous advantages, including no mortgage insurance and limited closing costs. Awareness of these loans is crucial for Veterans and their families to achieve home ownership.
What’s Your House Worth Now? The Answer May Surprise You
Many homeowners underestimate their home’s worth and the equity built over time from rising market values and mortgage payments. With an average equity of $311,000, this can be leveraged for buying a new home, renovations, or starting a business. Understanding your equity opens up financial opportunities for the future.
Mortgage Rates Hit Lowest Point So Far This Year
Mortgage rates have been declining for seven weeks, reaching the lowest level of the year, as recent economic uncertainty impacts consumer sentiment. This drop offers potential homebuyers a better opportunity with significant savings on monthly payments. However, volatility remains a possibility, prompting buyers to consider acting now.
How To Buy a Home Without Waiting for Lower Rates
Many buyers anticipate a drop in mortgage rates before purchasing a home, but experts forecast only a modest decline. Current predictions suggest rates will stabilize around 6.5%. Alternative financing options, such as mortgage buydowns, adjustable-rate mortgages, and assumable mortgages, can help buyers navigate affordability challenges in the market.
Mortgage Forbearance: A Helpful Option for Homeowners Facing Challenges
Mortgage forbearance allows homeowners facing temporary financial challenges to pause or lower mortgage payments. Despite misconceptions, it remains available beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly aiding those impacted by recent natural disasters. While forbearance rates have recently increased, they are still well below pandemic levels, offering crucial support to prevent foreclosure.
What To Save for When Buying a Home
When buying a home, it’s essential to budget for key costs like the down payment, closing costs, and earnest money deposits. While a 20% down payment is common, many loan options require less. Understanding these expenses and working with professionals will help you navigate the process confidently.
What To Look For From Last Week’s Fed Meeting
The Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut aims to influence mortgage rates and ease borrowing costs amid fluctuating inflation, job growth, and unemployment. While mortgage rates may gradually decline into 2025, they depend on economic conditions and potential market volatility. Understanding these factors can guide homebuying decisions effectively.
Expect the Unexpected: Anticipating Volatility in Today’s Housing Market
The current housing market is experiencing volatility due to factors like economic data, unemployment rates, Federal Reserve decisions, and the presidential election. Mortgage rates are fluctuating, though a downward trend is anticipated. Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent can help navigate these changes and make informed buying or selling decisions.
Do Elections Impact the Housing Market?
The 2024 Presidential election is near, raising questions about its impact on the housing market. Historically, elections lead to a slight temporary slowdown in home sales in November, while home prices generally rise regardless of elections. Mortgage rates tend to decrease leading up to elections. Overall, elections have a small, temporary impact on the housing market.