National Home Prices Rise and the Overall Market Improves
 According to the National Association of Home Builders/First American Improving Markets Index (IMI), the number of improving housing markets across the country increased to 259 in February, up from 242 in January. The index measures three indicators—employment growth, house price appreciation, and single-family housing permit growth. This is the sixth consecutive month the index has risen. What's more, the rise was seen in markets from all 50 states... Read More
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Will Mortgage Rates Rise?
 A few months ago mortgage rates hit historic lows, but now rates are on a slow climb. Will higher interest rates have an effect on housing affordability? Are historic low mortgage rates history?
Near-Record Lows
For the second consecutive week, the Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey showed no change in average fixed mortgage rates. For the week ending February 14, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged... Read More
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Houseplants 'Green Up' Your Home and Help You to Breathe Easier
 Did you know that houseplants do double duty? They not only add beauty to indoor spaces but also clean our indoor air and remove nasty toxins from carpets, paint, household cleaners, printers and even furniture.
"Besides what they give back in aesthetics, one of the greatest things houseplants do is provide much needed humidity in the winter months and freshen the air year round," says Justin Hancock, editor of Better Homes... Read More |
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Cost Vs. Value: Experts Say Curb Appeal Trumps Projects for 2013
 Want to know how much a home's value will increase for specific remodeling projects? The Cost vs. Value 2013 report, released by Remodeling magazine in cooperation with Realtor Magazine, shows a nationwide average cost for the job, resale value, and the percentage recouped. The report is based on a survey that culled the opinions of 3,900 brokers, appraisers and agents. If a home needs a new roof, the homeowner can see how much he might earn back (62.9 percent). Or, a homeowner can choose the most cost effective improvements rather than basing remodeling projects... Read More |
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7 Tips to Enhance Your Living Room on a Budget
You can easily upgrade and improve your living room for less than you may think. The following tips will show you where to start.
Use Curtains, Not Blinds
Blinds may be inexpensive, but they can also look cheap. White plastic blinds give a sterile, low-quality look to the room. Remember, window treatments are a type of decoration and they can set the whole tone for the room. Switching your blinds for curtains will help soften up a room's edges and add a pop of color.
Paint the Trim
Is painting an entire room too much work or too expensive? Just paint the trim instead. Painting only the trim will allow you to save on both... Read More
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