Is a real estate bubble to blame for sudden drops in the stock market? Does stock market volatility indicate that a housing crash and recession are imminent? Probably not. Although there are some correlations between stock market activity and the health of the housing market, there isn’t a direct, consistent cause and effect relationship between the two. There are always other factors at work that help to complete the big picture. Here’s some insight into how rates, the housing market and the stock market are intertwined, but still need to be considered separately.

First-time homeowners are often younger than the average homebuyer, which means lower income levels, less money saved and, typically, more student loan debt. Concerns about student loans often discourage would-be first-time buyers from pursuing their goal of homeownership. If you’re considering purchasing your first home, these tips can help get you there.

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As 2016 draws to a close, it’s a good time to reflect and look ahead to what 2017 may bring. The Trump Administration’s plans to cut taxes and prioritize spending on infrastructure have already started to impact the housing market and mortgage marketplace. Many of the trends we’re already seeing at the end of this year are expected to continue to affect home financing in 2017. Let’s take a look:

Read More “What Rising Rates Mean For Home Buyers and Owners As 2017 Approaches” →

There is no escaping it; debates, primaries and non-stop political rhetoric across all media channels. It’s 2016 and it’s an election year. And if you’re considering buying a home sometime in the next year, you may be curious about historical interest rate trends during the months before and after we’ve elected a new president.

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For any company where professional reputations and customer relationships matter, social media is the sensible place to put marketing efforts and budget. For relatively little budget, audiences can be micro-targeted and reached easily on all devices. Individual experts can put forth their unique selling propositions, beyond the reputation of a corporate brand, in spaces where friends and friends of friends are paying attention. According to statistics portal company Statista, personal recommendations and consumer opinions posted online are the most trusted forms of advertising, so a strong online reputation is critical.

Read More “Can Social Business Thrive Under Regulatory Scrutiny?” →

The Fed’s December announcement of a rate increase of 25 basis points (.25%) was highly anticipated, mostly because the last increase happened a decade ago. The threat of an increase has been looming and now that it has happened, what does the increase really mean to consumers? There’s no reason to panic. Here’s why:

Read More “Fed Rate Increase: What You Need To Know” →