George Duarte

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 24, 2017

April 24, 2017 George Duarte Mortgage Rates Comments Off

Mortgage rates fell below three percent according to Freddie Mac. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage dropped from 4.08 percent to 3.97 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage fell by nine basis point from 3.34 percent to 3.23 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was eight basis points lower at 3.10 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for fixed rate mortgages and 0.40 percent for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage. Lower mortgage rates are good news for home buyers challenged by rapidly rising home prices based on high demand and low supplies of homes for sale.

Did You Know? How Accelerating Your Mortgage Payments Can Help Your Credit Score

April 21, 2017 George Duarte Home Mortgage Tips Comments Off

The tough part might be over after your mortgage has been approved, but it’s still important to keep on top of your monthly payments and maintain a good credit score for your financial future. If you’re currently wondering how increasing your mortgage payments can help your credit outlook, here are some things to consider.

Going on a Nice Vacation? Protect Your Home and Valuables With These 3 Key Tips

It’s always exciting to pack up and get away from your home for the sake of escape, but going on vacation also means leaving your home behind. While a good neighborhood can go a long way towards making sure your home stays safe in your absence, here are some additional tips for how to ensure you’ll be coming back from your trip without incident.

NAHB: Builder Sentiment Dips in April

April 19, 2017 George Duarte Mortgage Rates Comments Off

According to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index for April, Builder Confidence dropped three points to an index reading of 68 in April. While any reading over 50 indicates positive builder confidence, home builders said that they continue to face obstacles including higher costs for materials and elevated costs associated with regulatory issues. Builders have repeatedly cited concerns including a lack of buildable lots and labor shortages in past months.

Selling Your Home? Understanding Why a Buyer Might Withdraw — and How to Win Them Back

April 18, 2017 George Duarte Home Seller Tips Comments Off

It may seem like the hard part is over once you’ve received a few offers on your home and are preparing for the negotiation process. Unfortunately, anything can happen until the papers and signed and this means that potential homebuyers can back out. If you’re dealing with a wavering bidder and are wondering how you can win them back, here are some reasons they might withdraw and how you may be able to win them over.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 17, 2017

April 17, 2017 George Duarte Mortgage Rates Comments Off

Last week’s economic releases included readings on inflation, core inflation, new jobless claims, and mortgage rates. Consumer sentiment for April was also released.

Pamper Your Pet With These Five Awesome Pet-friendly Home Upgrades

April 14, 2017 George Duarte Around The Home Comments Off

The best addition to many a family is the beloved pet, but beyond the regular treats and pillows, there are plenty of ways to spoil your pet and let them know how much you love them. If you’re looking for some neat concepts for your favorite pooch, here are some unique ideas you may want to try out.

Saving for a Mortgage Down Payment? 4 Tips That Will Help You Get There Faster

April 13, 2017 George Duarte Home Mortgage Tips Comments Off

For most people, the idea of saving more money each month is enough of a burden without having to think about investing in a home. A down payment, however, will require a lot more saving know-how and a lot more in liquid assets in order to be able to buy. If you’re trying to find ways to save a bit more each month, here are some sure-fire tips for raising the extra funds.

Til’ Debt Do Us Part: How to Get a Mortgage If One Spouse Has A Poor Credit Score

April 12, 2017 George Duarte Home Mortgage Tips Comments Off

A poor credit history is a reality for many people, but it can be particularly daunting when it comes to investing in a house. Fortunately, simply because you or yours have experienced bad credit doesn’t mean that you should be penalized in the future. If your spouse has struggled with bad credit in the past but you’re both preparing to move forward and invest in a home, here are some tips for getting it together financially.

Buying a Home on a Single Income? 3 Budgeting Tips That Will Make Things Easier

April 11, 2017 George Duarte Home Buyer Tips Comments Off

Are you thinking about buying that perfect new home? Whether you’re buying for yourself or a new home for a family, there will be many costs involved. Let’s take a look at 3 budgeting tips that will help make home ownership on a single income easier.

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