Home

Still afloat despite worst housing recession in 15 years

By Lou Barnes, Monday, July 9, 2007.

Mortgages have been remarkably stable in the 6.75 percent-6.875 percent area while the all-powerful 10-year T-note has run in a much wider range: 10 days ago touching 5.32 percent, on Tuesday trading briefly at 4.99 percent, and today an early burst to 5.22 percent.

Two lessons here. First, inject volatility into a system, as did the 10-year's rocket in June from 4.6 percent to the levels above and you'll have high volatility for quite a while.  more...

Don't wait, clear up title problem now

By Robert Bruss, Monday, July 9, 2007.

DEAR BOB: I was divorced over 25 years ago. My ex-husband and I held title to our home together. Since he didn't show up in court, the judge ordered in the divorce decree that my husband "quitclaim" our property to me. But he never signed the quitclaim deed. My attorney said it wasn't necessary because of the judge's ruling in the divorce decree. My adult daughter is concerned that because my ex-husband never signed the quitclaim deed, he could, after my passing, come back and claim half of the property. Should I take any action now? --Barbara V.

DEAR BARBARA: Yes.  more...

Is BofA's 'No Fee Mortgage Plus' a good deal?

By Jack Guttentag, Monday, July 9, 2007.

There is much to admire in Bank of America's new No Fee Mortgage Plus (NFMP) program for home purchasers. NFMP collapses all lender fees into one combination of interest rate and points, eliminating the myriad of separate lender "junk fees" that confuse shoppers. Junk fees are also a source of abuse by less scrupulous lenders who may raise them at the 11th hour.

BofA is not unique in eliminating junk fees.  more...

What should I consider when buying a condo or loft?

By Dian Hymer, Monday, July 9, 2007.

Lofts are springing up in many nifty urban neighborhoods. Although trendier than condos, most lofts are created with a condominium form of ownership.

A unique set of considerations come into play when you buy a condo or loft. With a single-family residence, you are the sole property owner.  more...