While the Federal Reserve has promised to keep rates “low” until 2013, it is clear to many experts that the current historical lows we are experiencing will not last. According to the latest projections from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), interest rates should gradually rise out of historic lows as we move through 2012. This isn’t the most welcome news for a housing market that has continued to falter and a...

We’ve seen the effects of tight mortgage conditions over the last year. Existing and new homes sales have struggled and we are now left with sizable pent-up demand. Will this trend continue into 2012? For starters, consumer prices fell in October, meaning low wage workers and others struggling to make ends meet will find more affordability. Additionally, according to experts, this decline gives the Federal Reserve more wiggle room when it comes...

Should I Take My Home Off the Market During the Holidays? When you look at your calendar you may find the months already overloaded with seasonal obligations — shopping, entertaining, children’s pageants, charity work, decorating the house, and so much more. If you are also trying to sell your home, you are under extra pressure to keep your home in “showtime” condition. And that could be the last thing you need before...

#1. Selecting the right Realtor. Look for the realtor that has the most knowledge and experience. This is not the time to be with a novice or part-timer. Interview at least three before making your choice. #2. Preparing the house before placing on the market. De-personalize your house as you want the buyer to view it as their potential home. Prepare the inside as if you were ready to move this week. Most sellers do not see how much clutter is...

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that “affordability” is the top reason for home buying in 2010. That makes sense, especially in unstable market conditions. Buyers, as always, are looking for a bargain but, more than ever, they’ve been enticed by low home prices and low interest rates, according to a survey by Weichert Realtors, Inc. The survey gathered information from 1,261 of the company’s customers who bought homes between...