What Do Americans Think About the Current Housing Market?
 Home buyers and investors alike are trying to gauge the health of the real estate market. One of the best ways to predict sales figures is to ask Americans if they plan on buying. The Fannie Mae National Housing Survey of May 2012 reported on the attitudes of 1,002 polled Americans toward the real estate market and the economy. The answers reflect the current—and the future—state of the housing market.
Higher Home Prices
Seventy-two percent of survey... Read More
|
|
|
2012 Home Design Trends
 To accommodate the ever-expanding family with the ever-shrinking budget, in 2012 builders will be focusing on maximizing space for minimal cost.
Changes to Floor Plans
Formal living spaces are falling out of favor with busy families. As a result, new home builders are eliminating formal rooms and devoting the leftover space to larger kitchens and great rooms, spaces where the family can relax together. Home offices are also... Read More
|
|
|
Five Cool Ways to Save on Air Conditioning This Summer
 Implementing even one of these five tips will help you lower your summertime cooling bill. Put all five into practice, and you may save more money than you thought possible. Just don't forget to turn down your air conditioner.
1. Turn Your Fans On
Used in tandem with air conditioning, ceiling fans do a fantastic job of keeping you cool by blowing hot air away from your skin. A top-quality ceiling fan with a high energy-efficiency rating may help... Read More |
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
Food Safety Tips for Summer Barbecues
 Summer is the season to be outdoors with friends and family at picnics, barbecues and many other events. But the warm weather also brings an increase in foodborne illnesses when food sits out in hot, humid conditions. Make sure your summer party is memorable for reasons other than food poisoning by taking steps to keep food fresh and safe.
Dr. Claudia Fajardo-Lira, spokesperson for the Institute of Food Technologists, says most foodborne bacteria thrive in summer's steamy conditions. "It's critical to protect yourself and your family from foodborne illness like E. coli and salmonella," she says. "Always remember to wash your hands and, if you don't have running water, bring along a water jug, some soap and paper towels... Read More |
|
|
Five Ways to Mess Up Your Mortgage Refinance
 Thousands of homeowners see the benefits of refinancing current loans in favor of really low interest rates. Even so, a refinance is difficult; home values are down, and paperwork demands are up. Because of this, it's easier than ever for homeowners to botch their refinance. To help you head off a few of the most common refinancing mistakes, avoid these five missteps.
1. Be unrealistic about your home's value.
The appraisal is king when it comes to value. Most denied loans are a direct result of a below par appraisal. Lenders simply won't lend more than the assessed value of your home. Numerous homeowners dismiss decreasing property values in their area, and continue to believe that their homes... Read More
|
|
|
