George Duarte

NAHB: Home Builder Confidence Drops in January

January 24, 2018 George Duarte Housing Market Comments Off

Homebuilder confidence in housing market conditions dipped two points in January; ongoing challenges including labor shortages and materials costs were cited by the National Association of Home Builders, which provides monthly readings on home builder sentiment. Three component readings of the Housing Market Index declined by one point each. Readings for current sales conditions, housing market conditions for the next six months and for buyer traffic within new single-family housing developments were 79, 78 and 54 respectively.

Shopping for a Mortgage? Don’t Make These Key Mistakes That Trip Up First-time Buyers

January 23, 2018 George Duarte Home Mortgage Tips Comments Off

Are you ready to dive into the real estate market for the first time? Buying a new house, condo or apartment is an exciting experience that sets you on the path to building your net worth. However, if you are planning to take out a mortgage, you should be aware that there are some potential pitfalls to avoid

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 22, 2018

January 22, 2018 George Duarte Mortgage Rates Comments Off

Last week’s economic news included readings on home builder confidence, housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released; the week wrapped with the University of Michigan’s report on consumer sentiment.

3 Ways That Buying a New Construction Home Beats Buying an Existing One, Every Time

January 19, 2018 George Duarte Home Buyer Tips Comments Off

Are you in the market for a new house? Whether you are a first-time home buyer or are upgrading to get more space, you will need to choose between buying an existing home or building a brand new one. Let’s explore three reasons why new construction homes are better than existing homes.

Looking to Buy a Home in 2018 and Don’t Know Where to Start? Here’s a Few Tips

January 18, 2018 George Duarte Home Buyer Tips Comments Off

Are you a renter that has become tired of paying someone else’s mortgage and not building any equity? Or a homeowner who has a growing family and is in need of more space? Whatever the case, if you are in the market for a new home there is no time like the present. Let’s explore a few tips that will help you to prepare for the home buying experience.

Renovating in 2018? Cash-out Mortgage Refinancing Might Be the Best Way to Fund It

January 17, 2018 George Duarte Home Mortgage Tips Comments Off

If you are a homeowner thinking about a significant home renovation in 2018, you have probably already considered your budget. As with any large project, you need to have the ability to pay the expected costs plus have a little bit extra set aside, just in case.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 16, 2018

January 16, 2018 George Duarte Mortgage Rates Comments Off

Consumer prices fell from November’s reading of 0.40 percent growth to o.10 percent growth in December, which matched expectations. The Core Consumer Price Index, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, dropped to 0.30 percent from November’s growth rate of 0.40 percent. Analysts expected a Core CPI reading of 0.20 percent for December.

3 Great Reasons to Use an Experienced Mortgage Professional for Your Next Mortgage

January 12, 2018 George Duarte Home Mortgage Tips Comments Off

Are you thinking about buying a new home in 2018? Whether you are a first-time home buyer or you’re downsizing now that the kids have moved out, you are likely considering whether or not you will need a mortgage. Even if you can afford to buy a home in cash, taking out a mortgage can help you maintain your liquidity for other spending purposes.

Buying a New Home in a Hot Real Estate Market? Here Are 4 Tips You Will Need to Be Successful

January 11, 2018 George Duarte Home Mortgage Tips Comments Off

Are you in the market for a new house? In a buyer’s market, finding and closing on a beautiful home can seem very easy. However, if you are shopping when the market is hot, you may end up fighting bidding wars and losing your dream home to a competing buyer. Let’s take a look at four tips that you will need to be successful when house hunting in a hot local real estate market.

Going Solar: 3 Reasons Why Solar Panels Should Be Your 2018 Home Improvement Project

January 10, 2018 George Duarte Around The Home Comments Off

Have you been scratching your head, wondering what your next great home renovation project should be? If you are like most homeowners, you have many areas that could use a little attention. Let’s explore three reasons why installing solar panels should be high on your list of home improvement projects for 2018.

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