Archive By Section - HOME SCENE
AG seeks statewide mortgage protections
SACRAMENTO (AP) - State Attorney General Kamala Harris promoted legislation Wednesday to reform the mortgage process in California and provide more protections for homeowners, three weeks after she secured $18 billion for California in a nationwide bank settlement.
Easy seasonal changes refresh homes
Spring's new growth and warm sunshine provide inspiration for renewal in our lives. It's a time to pack away the sweaters and boots for lighter layers and brimmed hats. Homeowners should embrace this same mindset - one where you pack away the heavy textures and colors of winter in favor of breezy fabrics and fun decor that inspire a fresh feeling in your house.
Average rate on 30-year mortgage down to 3.90% just above record low
WASHINGTON (AP) - The average rate on the 30-year mortgage edged down this week to hover again above record lows. Cheaper rates have spurred modest improvements in the battered housing market, but not enough to signal a recovery.
Sales contracts for homes rose 2 percent in January
WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of Americans who signed contracts to buy homes rose in January to the highest level in nearly two years, supporting the view that the housing market is gradually coming back.
Foreclosures comprised smaller slice of 2011 sales
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Bank-owned homes and short sales last year accounted for the smallest slice of overall sales in three years but still made up nearly a quarter of all U.S. homes sold in 2011.
Qualifying for $500K home-sale tax break
DEAR BENNY: My husband and I each have a trust, and our house is in my trust. We have lived in this house for 14 years. If we were to sell it, would we qualify for the $500,000 tax exemption? I understand each person is permitted $250,000, and a couple twice that amount. Does my trust make a difference, and if so, what should we do? --Arlene
‘Daylighting' improvements for homes
If your home will be on the market this spring, you're probably looking for every possible edge that will make it stand out to potential buyers. But even if you're staying put, you still want to make your home as attractive and valuable as your budget will allow.
SJ Master Gardeners offer free workshops
The free monthly workshop program offered by the San Joaquin Master Gardeners at the Manteca Public Library is making a comeback following its initial successful run last year.
Oakwood Shores making big splash with lifestyle, price & lakefront access
The next best thing in Manteca housing is here: Oakwood Shores.
Watchdog: Limit Fannie, Freddie legal fees more
WASHINGTON (AP) - The U.S. government regulator for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac must do a better job limiting legal expenses paid by the two mortgage giants to their former executives facing lawsuits, a new watchdog report says.
Rethinking the yard in drought-stricken regions
LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) - Texans watched disaster unfold slowly last year as a historic drought took a withering toll across the region.
Some money from mortgage settlement to be diverted
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - The ink wasn't even dry on a settlement with the nation's top mortgage lenders when Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon laid claim to a chunk of the money to avert a huge budget cut for public colleges and universities.
Good economic news continues to trickle out
The economic recovery was once again reinforced last week with the majority of data continuing to point towards growth. Retail Sales rose a solid .7% showing that consumers are continuing to increase spending long after the holiday season has ended.
Rising sales point to better year for housing
WASHINGTON (AP) - The housing market is flashing signs of health ahead of the spring-buying season.
Rate on 30-year mortgage rises to 3.95%
WASHINGTON (AP) - The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage jumped after standing pat for three straight weeks at record lows. But the rate stayed below 4 percent for the 12th straight week, keeping home-buying and refinancing attractive for those who can qualify.
Articles by Section - HOME SCENE
5 lawn care tips & projects to complete before winter
With the autumn season in full swing, there's no better time to watch leaves change colors, enjoy a hayride with family and friends, and indulge in a cup of hot apple cider. But, did you know it's also the perfect time to prepare your backyard for winter?
What to do with dad’s house with $330K mortgage
Q: My dad is in his 70's still working. Mom died a couple years ago and he's left with a mortgage (remaining balance of $330K on a single-home) on top of house maintenance, monthly costs and unpaid debts. Lately, dad expressed concern that he is getting old and worried how he can pay for the house. He is opposed to selling the house because of life memories. Stated the idea of us (family of 3, ...
Signed contracts to buy homes plunges in Sept.
WASHINGTON (AP) - The number of Americans who signed contracts to buy existing homes fell in September to the lowest level in nine months. The decline reflects higher mortgage rates and home prices that have made purchases more costly.
Mortgage rates at lowest level in four months
WASHINGTON (AP) - Average U.S. rates on fixed mortgages fell for the second straight week and are at their lowest levels in four months.
Tips to capture mood, season’s splendor
As decorations are hung this holiday season in preparation for entertaining family and friends, consider creating ambiance using lighting in the main social rooms of the home, including the kitchen, dining and living rooms. Beyond the trimmings, presents and other jolly adornments, it is essential to have the proper lighting to enhance the glow of the holidays and adjust the mood of a room.
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