Positive Signs from the Housing Market
 The national housing market is continuing to stabilize. According to Freddie Mac's Multi-Indicator Market Index (MiMi), half of the markets across the country are showing positive gains. While the national MiMi value of 74.4 indicates a weak housing market overall, the index posted a 0.51 percent improvement from August to September. Year-over-year, the index is up 3.68 percent. Since the market's all-time low of 59.8 in... Read More
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The Tax Perks of Homeownership
 Uncle Sam favors homeowners. Whether you own a starter home, a condo, a single-family residence or a cooperative apartment, you can enjoy tax breaks simply by being a homeowner—and the tax perks continue even when you sell your property.
Your mortgage interest will seriously reduce your tax bill. Owning a home comes with serious tax breaks, and none bigger than the relief you get on your... Read More |
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5 Financial Fitness Habits to Begin
in the New Year
While many people focus on personal health goals in the new year, the beginning of the year is also a great time to check your financial fitness. So how can you whip your finances into shape?
South University College of Business, Virginia Beach faculty member Dr. Alan Harper says everyone should adopt these five financial habits in 2015:
Establish a budget
Harper says the first step in taking control of your finances is to establish a budget... Read More
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5 Trends That Homebuyers Want in 2015
 It's hard to think of real estate as a trend-following asset, but buyers' tastes in bricks and mortar change almost as frequently as their taste in clothes. While classic styling will always be in, home sellers should think about introducing a few buzz features that will really make their homes pop. Here are the top five trending finishes for 2015.
1. Neutrals
Bright colors made a minor splash in 2014, but neutrals are now firmly back in vogue. Think white and gray instead of beige and taupe for a pared down, ultra-modern feel. Limit color to small pops... Read More
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3 Things to Think About
Before Downsizing
 Downsizing is a personal choice that many people face as children move out of the house. This often leaves a couple alone in a home that is bigger than they need. The benefits of living in a smaller home are many, but there are also drawbacks. Here are some important questions that will help to determine whether a smaller home is the answer.
1. How much will it cost?
While a smaller house will often mean lower mortgage payments, taxes and utility bills, this does not represent the total cost of downsizing. One of the side effects of a smaller home is less space. This could mean renting a storage space for things that can not be easily sold or discarded. Hidden costs such as replacing furniture and homeowners/condo... Read More |
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