Boston area mortgage experts say 2016 may bring greater borrowing opportunities for homebuyers. Although you still have to qualify for the amount you want to borrow, more lenders are reporting a loosening of credit standards. Fannie Mae says loan underwriting is expected to ease in the near future. Let’s examine why this may be the case and what the effect may be. […]
Many people in the Boston area economy say saving money is a goal in 2016. The best way to save is to have a plan. Depending on your stage of life, a savings plan requires specific financial responsibilities and actions. While there’s no such thing as a plan that fits everybody’s needs, here are some suggestions. Saving in the Boston Area Economy […]
Your Boston area home insurance should be among the items you review now that the new year is here. Since home maintenance is linked so closely to insurance it’s probably a good idea to consider the following checklist to make sure your home is as safe as possible. Maintenance and Boston Area Home Insurance Alarm testing. Home alarms such as smoke detectors, carbon […]
As predicted by some in the Boston area mortgage industry, sales of existing homes fell sharply in November. Insiders say the new consumer disclosure rule was to blame. The rule resulted in delays in many mortgage loan closings. Boston Area Mortgage Fears Realized The sale of existing homes dropped 10.5% during November from the previous month, according to the National Association of Realtors. […]
Until recently the Boston area housing market has been missing the segment of the population known as “millennials.” That generation has been described as having poor spending and saving habits. Many have finished college and are facing repayment of student loans. On top of that, rents have skyrocketed in recent years – increasing at a faster rate than incomes – making it difficult […]
Boston area taxes can throw some retirees a curveball if they’re not knowledgeable or prepared. Like most Americans, you’ve worked hard all your life and saved or invested for years to be able to enjoy retirement. What you don’t know about taxes could make retirement a little less enjoyable. Boston Area Taxes – What to Know IRA or 401(k) accounts. If […]
New single-family Boston area home sales were up in November. The increase was lower than anticipated, signaling a slight momentum change in the housing market. Recent Commerce Department statistics show new home sales increased 4.3% during November. This equates to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 490,000 new homes sold. The number of homes sold in October was revised downward […]
