Blog - Leagan Realty

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 22nd, 2024

April 22, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

Last week, the largest report was the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book, leading into chairman of the Federal Reserve Jerome Powell speaking on the current state of the economy and the stance of the Federal Reserve. While the Beige Book has indicated some positive movement towards a strong economy, there have been many indicators from all inflation data that inflation has yet to be tamed to the standards of the Federal Reserve.

This was punctuated by Jerome Powell, as he discussed at length the Federal Reserve has yet to feel inflation is under control. This has dispelled all notion there will be a rate cut in the future and likewise a strong reaction from lending partners and markets across the economy.

Beige Book

The U.S. economy grew slightly faster in the early spring and businesses added more workers, a Federal Reserve survey found, but there was little progress in lowering inflation.

The latest findings in the so-called Beige Book match the assessment of top Fed officials, who in recent weeks pointed to a strong economy and still-elevated inflation as a reason not to cut U.S. interest rates soon.

Jerome Powell on Inflation

Most recent data shows a lack of progress this year on reaching the Federal Reserve’s inflation goal, indicating that more time is needed before it can lower interest rates, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said Tuesday.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index

• 15-Yr FRM rates are seeing an increase by 0.23% with the current rate at 6.39%
• 30-Yr FRM rates are seeing an increase by 0.22% with the current rate at 7.1%

MND Rate Index

• 30-Yr FHA rates are seeing a 0.22% increase for this week. Current rates at 6.92%
• 30-Yr VA rates are seeing a 0.22% increase for this week. Current rates at 6.94%

Jobless Claims

Initial Claims were reported to be 212,000 compared to the expected claims of 215,000. The prior week landed at 212,000.

What’s Ahead

Three reports are set to take center stage. Another strong inflation indicator in the PCE Index & Prices, Consumer Sentiment from Univ. of Michigan, and Manufacturing PMI data. All which should give the final decision on whether the next Federal Reserve Rate Decision meeting will include a rate cut. There is very little expectation there will be a rate cut at this juncture.

Unlocking Home Equity With Home Equity Loans and HELOCs

April 19, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

Home equity loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) are two avenues through which homeowners can tap into this valuable asset. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for making informed financial decisions. We will review the intricacies of these financial products, exploring how they work and helping you determine which might be the better fit for your needs.

What is Home Equity?

Before we dive into the specifics of home equity loans and HELOCs, let’s first grasp the concept of home equity. Put simply, home equity is the portion of your property that you truly own—the difference between your home’s market value and the outstanding balance on your mortgage. As you pay down your mortgage or as your home appreciates in value, your equity increases, becoming a valuable asset that you can leverage for various financial needs.

Home Equity Loans:

A home equity loan, also known as a second mortgage, allows homeowners to borrow a lump sum of money using their home equity as collateral. These loans typically come with fixed interest rates and fixed monthly payments over a predetermined term, making budgeting more predictable. Home equity loans are ideal for one-time expenses such as home renovations, debt consolidation, or major purchases.

Key Features of Home Equity Loans:

Lump-sum disbursement: Borrowers receive the entire loan amount upfront.

Fixed interest rates: Rates remain constant throughout the loan term, providing stability in monthly payments.

Predictable payments: Fixed monthly payments make budgeting easier.

Interest may be tax-deductible: In some cases, the interest paid on home equity loans may be tax-deductible, depending on how the funds are used. Consult a tax advisor for details.

HELOCs (Home Equity Lines of Credit):

HELOCs, on the other hand, offer homeowners a revolving line of credit, similar to a credit card, that they can draw from as needed. The credit limit is determined by the equity in the home and other factors. Borrowers can access funds during a specified draw period, typically up to 10 years, and then enter a repayment period where they must repay the outstanding balance with interest.

Key Features of HELOCs:

Revolving line of credit: Borrowers can withdraw funds as needed, up to the credit limit, during the draw period.

Variable interest rates: Interest rates are often tied to an index, such as the prime rate, meaning payments can fluctuate over time.

Flexible borrowing: Borrowers have the flexibility to borrow what they need, when they need it, within the draw period.

Interest-only payments: During the draw period, borrowers may only be required to make interest payments, although paying down the principal is advisable.

Differences and Considerations:

When deciding between a home equity loan and a HELOC, several factors come into play:

Purpose of the loan: If you have a specific, one-time expense, a home equity loan may be more suitable. For ongoing or variable expenses, a HELOC might be preferable.

Interest rates: Home equity loans offer fixed rates, providing stability, while HELOCs feature variable rates, which can lead to fluctuating payments.

Repayment structure: Home equity loans have fixed monthly payments, whereas HELOCs offer more flexibility during the draw period but may require larger payments during the repayment period.

Home equity loans and HELOCs provide homeowners with valuable options for tapping into their home’s equity. Understanding the differences between these financial products is essential for making informed decisions that align with your financial goals and circumstances. Whether you opt for the predictability of a home equity loan or the flexibility of a HELOC, leveraging your home equity wisely can help you achieve your financial objectives while maximizing the value of your most significant asset—your home.

Exploring the Benefits of Buying a Fixer-Upper

April 18, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

Are you in the market for a new home? Have you considered the allure of a fixer-upper? While the idea of purchasing a home that needs a bit of TLC might seem daunting at first, numerous benefits come with this type of investment. We will plunge into the exciting world of fixer-uppers and uncover why they might just be the perfect choice for you.

Cost-Effectiveness: One of the most significant advantages of buying a fixer-upper is the potential cost savings. Typically, these homes are priced lower than move-in-ready properties, allowing you to purchase a larger or better-located home for the same budget. Additionally, you have the opportunity to increase the home’s value through renovations, ultimately yielding a higher return on investment.

Personalization: With a fixer-upper, you have the chance to create your dream home from the ground up. Instead of settling for someone else’s design choices, you can tailor the renovations to fit your style and preferences. Whether you’re envisioning an open-concept living space, a gourmet kitchen, or a luxurious master suite, the possibilities are endless when you’re starting with a blank canvas.

Building Equity: Renovating a fixer-upper allows you to build equity in your home right from the start. As you invest in upgrades and improvements, you’re increasing the property’s value, which can translate into substantial gains over time. Whether you decide to sell in the future or simply enjoy the added equity, it’s a win-win situation for your financial portfolio.

Learning Experience: Buying a fixer-upper is not just a financial investment; it’s also an opportunity for personal growth and learning. From tackling DIY projects to working with contractors, you’ll gain valuable skills and knowledge along the way. Plus, there’s a sense of pride that comes with knowing you’ve played a hands-on role in transforming your living space.

Community Revitalization: By investing in a fixer-upper, you’re not only improving your own home but also contributing to the revitalization of your community. Renovating an older or neglected property can have a positive ripple effect, inspiring neighbors to invest in their homes and enhancing the overall appeal of the area.

Flexibility: Unlike purchasing a move-in ready home, buying a fixer-upper allows you to take your time with renovations and upgrades. You can prioritize projects based on your budget and timeline, making it easier to manage the financial aspect of homeownership. Plus, you have the freedom to live in the home during renovations or tackle projects gradually as time and resources allow.

While buying a fixer-upper may require a bit more effort upfront, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. From cost savings and personalization to equity building and community impact, investing in a fixer-upper is a decision that can positively impact your life in more ways than one. So why wait? Take the plunge and uncover the hidden treasures awaiting you in the world of fixer-uppers. Your dream home might be closer than you think!

Quick Tips For Deciding The Value Of Your Home

April 17, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

Tips For Deciding The Value Of A Home Homes are more than just a building. They are filled with memories of children taking their first steps, holidays that were celebrated with family members and friends, and Super Bowl parties filled with smiles and cheers.

These memories are priceless; however, people cannot let emotions cloud their judgment when they are trying to sell a house. Instead, it is important to focus on the building. There are a few tips that everyone should follow as they try to figure out how much their home is worth.

Be Reasonable

The first tip is not to price a home too high out of the gate. While it is tempting to start high and reduce when necessary, the reality is that a price that is too high is going to scare off potential offers. It is better to start with a reasonable price that will get people interested. Then, if the offers start to pour in, there is a bidding war. The price will naturally take care of itself.

Upgrades Don’t Always Lead To A Higher Price

It is tempting to follow in the footsteps of TV shows and pour money into renovations that might lead to a large return on investment. The sad fact is that this is not always the case. Even though the homeowners might love the renovation, this doesn’t mean that a potential buyer will. Do not renovate purely to raise the value of a home. Upgrades can go out of style just as quickly as they came in.

Don’t Price Out Of Necessity

Never price a home based on a dollar amount that has to be reached. It is always better to price a home relative to what the market indicates. Nobody is going to make an offer on an overpriced home purely because that is how much money the seller needs to make.

Leave Emotions At The Door

Finally, do not price a home based on emotions. Yes, a home is a special place; however, remember that the home is on the market, not the memories. Instead, always price a home based on what the comparables are showing. This will lead to a smoother selling process, a higher price, and a bigger return on the initial investment.

Enhancing Home Living: The Intersection of Technology and Real Estate

April 16, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

Technology is no longer limited to just our smartphones and laptops; it’s rapidly infiltrating every aspect of our lives, including the place we call home. The real estate industry is experiencing a significant transformation with the emergence of Smart Homes and the Internet of Things (IoT). These innovations are not just about convenience; they are revolutionizing the way we live, making our homes safer, more efficient, and ultimately more enjoyable.

Welcome to the Future: Smart Homes

Gone are the days when homes were just four walls and a roof. Now, they are becoming smarter, thanks to advancements in technology. Imagine being able to control your lights, thermostat, security cameras, and even your coffee maker from your smartphone. Smart homes offer precisely that level of convenience and control.

One of the most significant advantages of smart home technology is its ability to enhance security. With smart security systems, homeowners can monitor their property in real time, receive alerts about suspicious activity, and even remotely control door locks and cameras. This not only provides peace of mind but also serves as a powerful deterrent to potential intruders.

Efficiency Redefined: The Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) takes smart homes to the next level by connecting various devices and systems to the Internet, allowing them to communicate and share data. This interconnectedness leads to increased efficiency and automation in the home.

For instance, IoT-enabled thermostats can learn your temperature preferences and adjust the settings, accordingly, saving energy and reducing utility bills. Smart appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines, can optimize their usage based on your habits and preferences, making household chores less burdensome.

Transforming the Real Estate Landscape

The integration of smart home technology and IoT is reshaping the real estate market in profound ways. Homebuyers are increasingly prioritizing smart features when searching for properties, viewing them as valuable investments that offer both convenience and long-term savings.

For sellers, incorporating smart home technology can significantly increase the value of their properties and attract more potential buyers. Additionally, real estate agents are leveraging technology to provide immersive virtual tours and interactive experiences, allowing clients to explore homes from the comfort of their own devices.

Challenges and Considerations

While the benefits of smart homes and IoT are undeniable, there are also challenges and considerations to be aware of. Privacy and security concerns regarding the collection and storage of personal data remain valid issues that need to be addressed. Additionally, there is the potential for compatibility issues between different devices and platforms, which could hinder the seamless integration of smart home systems.

Furthermore, the upfront cost of implementing smart home technology may be prohibitive for some homeowners. However, as the technology becomes more widespread and affordable, we can expect to see greater adoption and integration across all segments of the real estate market.

Embracing the Future

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the intersection of technology and real estate will only become more pronounced. Smart homes and IoT are not just trends; they are the future of home living. By embracing these innovations, homeowners can create safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable living spaces for themselves and their families.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply looking to upgrade your current home, consider the possibilities that smart home technology has to offer. From enhanced security and energy efficiency to unparalleled convenience and comfort, the benefits are undeniable. Welcome to the future of real estate – where technology meets home.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 15th, 2024

April 15, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is showing higher than expected inflation, and the Producer Price Index (PPI) is showing lower than expected inflation. The two are in conflict with each other; however, the Consumer Price Index is still the far greater indicator for inflation as it directly impacts the cost of living for everyone, not just production assets.

Given the Federal Reserve’s recent speeches it would seem that there is very likely to be a delay in the rate cuts this upcoming quarter. They have stated numerous times they are driven largely by data and that data has proven that inflation is still not as quite under control as they had anticipated moving into Quarter 2. Lending partners have been responding in kind to the news as they have had strong rate increases across the board for the previous week.

Producer Price Index

The producer price index is more volatile than a similar survey of consumer prices, but it’s not pointing to a broad acceleration in U.S. inflation. To be sure, the PPI has moved higher in early 2024. The yearly rate of wholesale inflation climbed to an 11-month high of 2.1% in March from 1.6% in the prior month.

Consumer Price Index

The cost of consumer goods and services rose a sharp 0.4% in March, capping off a third straight month of elevated inflation readings that will make it hard for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates soon. The increase in the consumer price index last month exceeded the 0.3% forecast of economists.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index

• 15-Yr FRM rates are seeing an increase by 0.10% with the current rate at 6.16%
• 30-Yr FRM rates are seeing an increase by 0.06% with the current rate at 6.88%

MND Rate Index

• 30-Yr FHA rates are seeing a 0.25% increase for this week. Current rates at 6.70%
• 30-Yr VA rates are seeing a 0.26% increase for this week. Current rates at 6.72%

Jobless Claims

Initial Claims were reported to be 211,000 compared to the expected claims of 217,000. The prior week landed at 222,000.

What’s Ahead

The Beige Book report is the only impactful release next week. We should see a relatively calm week, as the weeks following inflation data reports often have a less-filled schedule. This upcoming week should feature the usual weekly reports in jobs data.

Maximizing Your Profits: A Guide to Utilizing Construction Loans for Fix-and-Flip Projects

April 12, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

Fix-and-flip projects can be lucrative endeavors for real estate investors, but they often require a significant upfront investment. One key financial tool that savvy investors use to fund these projects is a construction loan. We will examine how you can leverage construction loans to maximize your profits in the fix-and-flip game.

Understanding Construction Loans:
A construction loan is a short-term financing option designed specifically for real estate development projects. Unlike traditional mortgages, which are disbursed in a lump sum, construction loans are released in stages as the project progresses. These loans typically have higher interest rates and shorter terms, making them ideal for fix-and-flip scenarios where the goal is to sell the property quickly after renovations.

The Benefits of Construction Loans for Fix-and-Flip:

Quick Access to Capital:
Construction loans provide rapid access to the funds needed for property acquisition and renovation. This speed is crucial in the competitive fix-and-flip market, where time is often of the essence.

Interest-Only Payments:
During the construction phase, you may only need to make interest payments on the loan. This can help ease the financial burden while allowing you to focus on completing the project and preparing the property for sale.

Customizable Loan Terms:
Construction loans offer flexibility in terms of repayment schedules, allowing you to tailor the loan to the specific needs and timeline of your fix-and-flip project.

Higher Loan-to-Cost Ratios:
Many construction loans offer higher loan-to-cost ratios than traditional mortgages, enabling you to finance a larger portion of your project costs. This can free up your capital for additional investment opportunities.

Steps to Successfully Utilize a Construction Loan for Fix-and-Flip:

Thorough Project Planning:
Before applying for a construction loan, develop a detailed project plan that includes a realistic budget, timeline, and scope of work. Lenders will be more likely to approve your loan if they see a well-thought-out plan.

Selecting the Right Lender:
Choose a lender experienced in construction loans for fix-and-flip projects. Look for a lender who understands the dynamics of the real estate market and can provide the support and guidance you need throughout the process.

Applying for the Loan:
Prepare a comprehensive loan application that outlines your project’s details, your experience as an investor, and your financial standing. Be prepared to provide documentation such as project cost estimates, property appraisals, and your credit history.

Effective Project Management:
Once the loan is approved, manage your project efficiently to stay on schedule and within budget. Timely completion of the renovation is crucial to minimizing interest payments and maximizing your potential profit.

Marketing and Sale:
As the project nears completion, focus on effective marketing strategies to attract potential buyers. The goal is to sell the property quickly and repay the construction loan, allowing you to realize your profit.

Utilizing a construction loan for fix-and-flip projects can be a strategic move for real estate investors. By carefully planning your project, selecting the right lender, and managing the construction process effectively, you can leverage construction loans to maximize your profits and achieve success in the competitive fix-and-flip market.

Small Repairs That Can Raise Your Sales Price

April 11, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

If you’re actively preparing to list your home for sale, resist the temptation to make major home improvements. Focus on minor projects instead for a better return on your time and money. It’s the smaller projects that tend to have a bigger, long-term payoff.

So, how do you determine which projects are the “smaller ones”? It’s obvious when you think like a buyer.

Consider: Home buyers don’t always notice when your home is in working order. In fact, they expect it to be that way. What they do notice, however, is when things are “broken”. When a buyer sees torn screens in your windows or burnt-out light bulbs, they begin to wonder what else in the home has not been cared for.

This is one reason why — especially during warmer months — it’s sensible to hire an exterminator before selling your home. If a prospective buyer uncovers bugs in your bathroom, it can leave a lasting, negative impression, one that won’t likely lead to a purchase.

So, with “small repairs” in mind, here are 5 simple projects you can tackle in a weekend, that will help your home show better. Each is low-cost and high-impact:

Repair or remove torn screen doors
Fix all leaky faucets and toilets
Touch up holes and cracks in paint, interior and exterior
Apply a lubricant to squeaky doors and cabinets
Get “clutter” into storage and physically out of the way

In addition, you’ll want to pull weeds from your yard, seed any bare spots you find, and lay down fresh mulch, where appropriate.

You won’t need to spend big bucks to get your home ready for sale, but the time spent on repairs will ultimately have a pay-off. Homes that show better often sell much faster and at higher prices.

“How To Manage Investment Property While Working Full-Time “

April 10, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

Most independent rental property owners in the U.S. reportedly work another job on top of being a landlord. That means the overwhelming majority of landlords are attempting to juggle more than they can handle at times. However, there are organizational and strategic concepts that can maximize efficiency and profitability.

Consider the following tips that bring property management tasks under three basic headings: organization, automation, and outsourcing.

Organization Matters

One of the things that tends to overwhelm landlords is thinking about the rental properties as an extension of home ownership. The rental seems like it involves many of the same tasks such as maintenance and repair.

By rethinking rentals in terms of a small business, the way these and other tasks are approached can become radically different. If this were a Mom-and-Pop store or a corporation, the necessary resources would be brought in to handle niche labor. Organize all of the tasks that the rental unit(s) require under categories that may include the following.

Rental Advertising
Applicant Interviews
Background Checks
Legal Documents (leases)
Maintenance and Repairs
Rent Collection and Bill Paying

Automation Matters

Industries across the globe are moving to automation as a way to increase productivity and lower costs. There is no reason that landlords working other jobs cannot do the same.

While fixing a burst pipe may not be a good candidate for automation, there are numerous tasks property owners undertake that no longer require valuable time.

Advertising: Consider a process where an online advertisement is pre-written and posted when a lease expires.
Rental Payments: Consider automatic withdrawal from tenant accounts or having them direct deposit.
Bill Payment: Consider auto pay for every possible facet of the property, including utilities, taxes, insurance, mortgage, and others.
Maintenance and Repair: Consider an online form for tenants to fill out that provides real-time notification.

These and other tools can streamline the amount of time required to manage a rental property without incurring significant expenses.

Outsourcing Matters

People who work regular jobs and also manage rental properties are entrepreneurs by nature. That go-getter personality leads many to take on more tasks than there is time in the day. That’s why outsourcing is so important.

Outsourcing things like accounting or legal services are no-brainer because they require specialized knowledge. But other tasks such as applications, background checks, and maintenance may be good things to put on someone else’s plate as well.

As noted at the beginning of this article, if a small business mindset were applied, many of these tasks would be assigned to a designated resource. Consider operating rental units in this fashion by running a cost analysis and outsourcing.

If you’re ready to invest in a rental property, contact your trusted real estate professional who can point you to the hottest markets in your area.

Essential FAQs for Homebuyers

April 9, 2024 by Lisa Eagan

Join us as we navigate through the common queries that may emerge throughout your mortgage journey. Remember, your quest for homeownership should be illuminated with comprehension and direction. Let’s discuss the primary 4 mortgage inquiries and decode the secrets to unlocking the gateway to your ideal home.

What Sets Fixed-Rate Mortgages Apart from Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs)?

A fixed-rate mortgage boasts a steady interest rate over the loan period, ensuring consistency in monthly payments. Conversely, an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) features a fluctuating interest rate that may shift periodically. While ARMs often commence with lower rates, they can escalate, potentially impacting monthly payments. The choice between them hinges on your inclination towards stability or adaptability to market fluctuations.

How Much Down Payment is Necessary for Home Purchase?

The ideal down payment varies but typically hovers around 20% of the home’s purchase price. Nevertheless, alternatives with lower down payments exist, such as FHA loans requiring down payments as low as 3.5%. A larger down payment frequently translates to more favorable interest rates, yet it’s crucial to strike a balance aligned with your financial circumstances.

Is Prepaying My Mortgage an Option?

Absolutely, most mortgages permit prepayment. Channeling additional payments towards your mortgage principal aids in diminishing the overall interest accrued and shortening the loan duration. Nonetheless, it’s imperative to consult your lender regarding any prepayment penalties or constraints. Certain loans may entail specific terms or conditions concerning prepayments, hence comprehending these particulars empowers you to make prudent financial choices.

What Constitutes Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), and When is it Mandatory?

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is typically mandated when the down payment falls below 20%. It serves to safeguard the lender in the event of borrower default. Once the equity in the home attains 20%, borrowers may potentially request the elimination of PMI. Certain loans, like FHA loans, adhere to distinct regulations about mortgage insurance, underscoring the importance of acquainting oneself with the specific requisites associated with your loan.

While these FAQs shed light on fundamental mortgage facets, individual circumstances may diverge. It’s advisable to seek counsel from a mortgage expert for tailored guidance suited to your distinct scenario.