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Weak economy won't stifle interest-rate hikes

By Lou Barnes, Friday, November 12, 2004.

Fixed-rate mortgage rates have behaved very well, still close to 5.75 percent in the face of oil falling below $50/bbl, stocks in an up-side technical breakout, improving economic data, and the Fed showing every sign of continuing to raise its rate.

Tending to hold rates down: heavy bond-buying by China and Japan as they try to keep their currencies low to preserve their exports; inflation on hold slightly below 1.5 percent annualized; and despite opportunities that may flow from Arafat's death, Middle East worries maintain a substantial bid in the Treasury market.  more...

Joining the ranks of real estate's top performers Premium Content

By Bernice Ross, Friday, November 12, 2004.

(This is Part 1 of a three-part series. See Part 2: Personality holds clues to real estate success and Part 3: 13 tips for improving real estate performance.)

What does it take to be a top producer? Is it training, connections, behavioral style, or just dumb luck?  more...

Small details improve home's functionality

By Arrol Gellner, Friday, November 12, 2004.

There are enough headaches in planning a home or addition without fretting over where the towel bars go, right? Unfortunately, leaving such seemingly trivial details to the last minute can often sabotage all your other good efforts.

Certain classes of items are commonly ignored or overlooked during the design process, not only by do-it-yourselfers, but by architects as well.

Typically, they're accessories that seem so minor they don't command serious attention until it's too late.  more...

A 'safe' bet for storing valuables

By Paul Bianchina, Friday, November 12, 2004.

If you store valuables at home–anything from jewelry and cash to stamp collections or important documents–you might want to consider installing a residential safe. Safes designed for home use come in a variety of shapes, sizes and designs, and there's sure to be one out there that's perfect for your needs.

Residential safes come in three basic configurations: wall, floor, and freestanding. Many also allow you to choose between dial, keypad, and key-lock mechanisms, and there are even a variety of outside color choices now available.  more...

Home seller's remorse takes its toll on homeowners

By Robert Bruss, Friday, November 12, 2004.

A few weeks ago, I spent several days at my second home in Minnesota. I look forward to these monthly "forced vacations" where I combine business and pleasure. Of course, I always check up on the local real estate market conditions.

On my most recent Minnesota visit, at Southdale (the nation's first enclosed indoor shopping mall), I unexpectedly encountered a high school classmate (actually a high school sweetheart, but that's another story).

Purchase Bob Bruss reports online.  more...