30
Jan
By First Rate Financial Group
Mortgage

The Average Mortgage Payment Is Declining. Here’s Why.

The Average Mortgage Payment Is Declining. Here's Why.According to a report that was recently published by the United States Census Bureau, the average mortgage payment has been dropping. According to the bureau, the average payment is just over $1,500 per month. This is shockingly close to the average cost of renting, which is just under $1,500 per month. 

This data shows that the average mortgage payment is declining, down by around three percent in the past 18 months. This trend is expected to continue. Some people might be surprised that the average mortgage rate is dropping, given that the average real estate value continues to rise across the country. There are a few reasons why mortgage payments are dropping.

Why The Average Mortgage Payment Is In Decline

The average mortgage rate is dropping because the average interest rate applied to each home loan is dropping as well. They are hovering around three-year lows. 

This means that even though the principal of the loan that someone might take out to purchase a home is staying the same (or going up), the total cost of the mortgage is going down. This is great news for anyone who is looking to buy a home in the near future. Low interest rates may make the cost of buying a home more affordable. 

The Importance Of The Average Mortgage Payment

It is important to remember that the average mortgage payment is simply a statistical measure. These statistics are evaluations of the overall trend. In reality, every mortgage is going to be different. Two people who are buying properties that are very similar may end up with mortgages that look very different.

The mortgage payment is based on numerous factors that can vary widely from person to person. In addition to the interest rate applied to the loan, other factors include the size of the down payment, the buyer’s credit score, how much debt someone might have, their average income, and the possible requirement of private mortgage insurance (PMI).

Lowering A Monthly Mortgage Payment

Anyone looking to lower their monthly mortgage payment has a few tools at his or her disposal. Consider making a larger down payment, improving the credit score, or reducing any current debts. This can help someone negotiate for more favorable mortgage terms.

Consult with your trusted home mortgage professional to discuss your best financing options.

29
Jan
By First Rate Financial Group
Market Outlook

Case-Shiller Reports Growth In Home Prices In November

Case-Shiller Reports Growth In Home Prices In NovemberCase-Shiller Home Price Indices reported that national growth of home prices rose by 0.30 percent in November. Analysts said that slim inventories of available homes boosted home prices. Whether or not home price growth continues gaining speed depends on variables including supplies of homes for sale, affordability and home-buyer confidence in the economy.

Mr. Craig Lazzara, managing director and global head of index investment strategy at S&P Dow Jones Indices said, “It is, of course, too soon to say whether this marks an end to the deceleration [of home price growth] or is merely a pause in the longer-term trend.”

Phoenix Holds First Place In Home-Price Growth For 6 Consecutive Months

Case-Shiller’s 20-City Home Price Index showed that all cities tracked reported year-over-year growth in home prices after seasonal adjustments. Phoenix, Arizona held the top position with home price growth of 5.90 percent; Charlotte, North Carolina held second place in the 20-City Index with 5.20 percent growth in home prices and Tampa, Florida held third place with year-over-year home price growth of 5.00 percent.

The Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index posted a year-over-year gain of 2.60 percent in November and home prices rose by 0.10 percent in November as compared to October. Case-Shiller reported that home price growth increased by 3.50 percent nationally on a seasonally adjusted annual basis.

Buyers Seeking Affordable Homes Inland

Home-buyers sought less expensive homes in inland states as high-priced homes in coastal regions continued to be unaffordable for many. Slim supplies of homes contributed to bidding wars that drove home prices higher. Analysts said that home prices are set to drop in high-cost markets as the home-buyers move to more affordable markets.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency, which oversees Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, reported a 4.90 percent gain in November home prices for properties associated with mortgages owned by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac; this reading was compiled on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis.

FHFA data noted that the Mountain Region reported slower month-to-month growth in home prices in November, but all geographic regions reported positive growth in home prices year-over-year. The Mountain region includes the states of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming; these states typically offer a lower cost of living and affordable home prices as compared to high priced coastal areas.

28
Jan
By First Rate Financial Group
Real Estate

Eight Signs You’re Ready To Stop Renting And Buy A Home

Eight Signs You're Ready To Stop Renting And Buy A HomeFor many people, owning a home is seen as a rite of passage. At the same time, purchasing a home is expensive. As a result, many people end up renting for an extended period of time.

Here are a few signs that someone is ready to stop renting and purchase a home.

1. Rental Prices Keep Going Up

Year after year, rental prices are going to keep going up. While the rental company is going to claim that these increases are consistent with the industry, they tend to be exorbitant. As a result, those who are tired of their rent being increased should think about buying property instead.

2. The Credit Score Has Gone Up

Someone’s credit score is going to play a major role in the mortgage approval process. Anyone whose credit score has gone up recently should think about buying property.

3. Debt Management Is Second Nature

Before taking out a mortgage, someone is going to have to be good at managing debt. A mortgage is simply another form of debt. It needs to be managed properly.

4. There Is A Liquidity Fund In Place

The cost of owning a home extends far beyond the mortgage. Anyone who is thinking about owning property is going to have to have money set aside to cover additional costs. These include repairs, maintenance, and homeowners’ insurance.

5. There Is Money For A Down Payment

There is going to be a large check due upfront. A down payment is essential when it comes to buying a home. In addition, be sure to set aside money for closing costs as well.

6. You’re Going To Settle Down

When someone is thinking about buying a home, they need to stay in the same place for an extended period of time. When someone buys and sells homes quickly, they are likely to lose money to closing costs.

7. A Major Life Change Is Happening

Many people elect to buy a home after a major life change. This might come in the form of marriage. This might also come on the back of having kids. These major life changes can trigger someone to settle down and buy a home.

8. Your Vision Of The Future Is Clear

Those who know where their life is headed in the near future are in a great position to buy a home. If the future is clear, you are ready for the responsibilities of homeownership.

If you are in the market for a new home or interested in refinancing your current property, be sure to contact your trusted home mortgage professional to discuss financing options.