Average 30-Year Mortgage Rate Falls Slightly
Rates on 30-year mortgages fell to 6.65% from 6.67% last week, while rates on 15-year mortgages rose to 5.89% from 5.83% last week, Freddie Mac said.
Seller’s Guide to Navigating Multiple Offers
NAR’s latest Consumer Guide provides sellers with insights on evaluating several offers, negotiation strategies and other useful information.
Pending Home Sales Advanced 2.0% in February
Pending home sales in the South rose 6.2% in February, leading regional gains. The South remains a stronger market than other regions.
Creating a Peaceful Backyard Retreat
A relaxing backyard space could include water features, shaded spots and multiple gathering spaces. Backyard retreats may boost home value by 3.1%.
Hispanic Homeownership Hits Record High
In 2024, 9.8M Hispanic households owned homes, but the rate fell as household growth outpaced ownership. NAHREP urges action on affordability and supply.
Bigger Down Payments Continue in Q4 2024
The typical Q4 down payment was $30,250, slightly below Q3 but $3K higher year-over-year. Higher home prices and rates were keeping down payments elevated.
New Home Sales Edge Higher in February
Sales of newly built, single-family homes in February increased 1.8% thanks to slightly lower mortgage rates. Inventory was up 7.5% compared to a year earlier.
AccuWeather Predicts Busy Hurricane Season
The weather service forecasts up to six U.S. tropical impacts in 2025, with 13-18 named storms and 3-5 major hurricanes.
From Roommate to Landlord: A Mindset Shift
Many renting out rooms see tenants as roommates, not renters, but embracing the landlord role helps them better manage leases, rent and legal protections.
NAR Adds Flexibility for Sellers
NAR’s new policy lets MLSs set a delay period before sellers and agents market properties publicly through IDX or syndication.