Explore the Latest in Real Estate News
Mortgage Rates Move Slightly Higher; Could Be Headed Back Down Again
Mortgage rates moved slightly higher this week to reverse their month-long slide. According to the latest data released Thursday by Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed rate average crept up to 3.91 percent with an average 0.5 point. Bankrate.com found that experts expect rates to remain relatively stable in the coming week.
Why Real Estate Agents Shouldn’t Fear Being Replaced by Technology
The internet has evolved into a wonderful resource for home buyers. With new innovations in technology, many buyers can locate their ideal property online without any help from a real estate professional. Greg Fox, owner and broker at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Alliance, comments on how realtors can stay relevant.
The Rise of Virtual Reality in Real Estate
New developments in real estate technology look to give buyers and sellers a new way to experience properties using virtual and augmented reality. Property photos have been essential in property marketing for decades. However, thanks to advances in video and internet technology, buyers will soon be able to explore homes in 3-D.
Five Root Causes for U.S.’s Depressed Homeownership Rate: New study
Despite steadily improving local job markets and historically low mortgage rates, the U.S. homeownership rate is still at a 50-year low. According to a new white paper titled, “Hurdles to Homeownership: Understanding the Barriers” released at the National Association of Realtors® Sustainable Homeownership conference, the cause is a mix of affordability challenges, student loan debt, tight credit conditions and housing supply shortages.
Fundrise Introduces New Way for Millennials to Endow Their Future Houses
Fundrise, a real estate crowdfunding startup, is launching a new model based on the idea of investing in the home you’ll want to buy in five years. The Washington D.C. company is selling shares called “eFunds” that are dedicated to building and remodeling single family housing in urban locations.
