It’s Pumpkin Spice Season: Plan A Neighborhood Potluck

Fall is the time to get back into a comfortable routine, but it's also a great time to incorporate social events into weekend work parties, and gather friends to offer neighbors a helping hand -- or just moral support -- to spruce up their property. While building a new sense of community may be a side effect, it can't be denied that giving homes in need of minor repairs a little TLC is good for the dollar value of the neighborhood as well as for the soul. REALTORS agree that the overall appeal of a neighborhood adds value to individual…
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Fed Raises Key Interest Rate For 3rd Consecutive Time

The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve announced that it raised the target federal funds rate to a range of 2.00 percent to 2.25 percent. This was the third consecutive increase in the Fed's key interest rate and was the eighth time the Fed raised its key interest rate since 2015. In its customary post-meeting statement, Committee members cited strong economic conditions and continued labor market growth coupled with historically low unemployment rates as a basis for raising the federal funds interest rate. Fed Cites Steady Inflation, Healthy Household And Business Spending Further economic conditions cited in the…
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5 Things To Do This Fall To Get Ready For Winter

Simple home and yard tips don't have to take a lot of time, but can save a lot of headaches if that first winter storm catches you unaware. Here's a checklist to help you prepare: Assess Your Windows And Doors Take a walk around your interior, preferably on a windy day. Check for drafts and air leaks; replace weatherstripping, align door thresholds. and repair window frames and sills if they're damaged. If you have storm windows, make sure they're ready to install. Replace the screens in a storm door with glass panels. Also check your garage door to make sure…
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Common Misconceptions About House Flipping

Reality TV shows have energized everyday people to dive into the real estate market and make money flipping houses. The dramatic presentation and profitable end results make the industry seem like a sure thing. But house-flipping, like any industry, has its share of challenges. Television often props up ratings by showing industry pros overcoming adversity and getting a big win. But reality, unlike Reality TV, is filled by behind-the-scenes unknown obstacles. While house-flipping has emerged as a viable niche profession, these are some of the common misconceptions entrepreneurs may want to consider before wading into the business. Perfect Properties Are…
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What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 24th, 2018

Last week's economic releases included readings on the NAHB Housing Market Index, sales of pre-owned homes, and housing starts. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also released. NAHB: Home Builder Confidence in Market Conditions Holds Steady The National Association of Home Builders reported an index reading of 67 for September, which matched August's reading. Growing concerns over impacts of tariffs on building material costs have slowed builders' confidence in current and future market conditions. Components of the NAHB Housing Market Index include readings on current conditions, which gained one point to 74; builder confidence in market…
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