As the year draws to a close, the mortgage market has encountered a significant downturn due to a spike in interest rates. According to recent data revealed by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), the total volume of mortgage applications plummeted by 21.9% during the two weeks ending December 27, 2024. This figure is not simply
Real Estate
In the closing months of 2024, the housing market displays a dichotomy of optimistic signs amidst troubling challenges. While there has been an influx of available properties, a significant portion of them has been languishing unsold for extended periods. This mixed bag of news reflects deeper complexities within the housing economy, raising questions about pricing
Home Depot, one of the largest home improvement retailers in the United States, faced a tumultuous market in 2024, grappling with high interest rates and a hesitant consumer base. However, despite these challenges, the company’s resilience has set the foundation for a promising rebound in 2025. This article delves into Home Depot’s performance throughout 2024,
The aspiration of homeownership, long considered a cornerstone of the American Dream, now seems increasingly elusive for many, particularly among younger generations and first-time buyers. As housing prices continue to soar, while wages stagnate, the dream of homeownership is fading into a precarious fantasy. The obstacles to purchasing a home—soaring prices, tough mortgage requirements, and
In a financial climate marked by uncertainty, mortgage rates have once again seen a decline, which, while modest, has encouraged many existing homeowners to consider refinancing their loans. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, recent data reveals a notable uptick in mortgage demand, with an impressive 5.4% increase week-over-week. This surge, primarily attributed to homeowners
When applying for a mortgage, potential homeowners often focus on the properties they are interested in, but they should also be keenly aware of the financial qualifications required by lenders. A common pitfall many encounter during the process is the denial of their mortgage application, frequently due to what is termed “unverifiable income.” This article
In a disquieting turn of events, the Alexander brothers—Tal, Oren, and Alon—who once exemplified the heights of success within Manhattan’s luxury real estate market, now stand accused of orchestrating a brutal sex trafficking scheme that allegedly spanned over a decade. Federal prosecutors have unsealed a damning indictment that alleges these influential figures exploited their wealth
On a recent Wednesday, the Federal Reserve made headlines by announcing a quarter-point reduction in its benchmark interest rate, totaling a cumulative decrease of one percentage point since September 2023. This marks the third consecutive rate cut, providing a glimmer of hope for consumers who have grappled with a spike in borrowing costs over the
In a noteworthy development within the U.S. housing market, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently reported a 4.8% increase in sales of previously owned homes for November compared to the preceding month. This significant upswing places the seasonally adjusted annualized sales rate at approximately 4.15 million units, which marks a robust 6.1% growth relative
In 2024, the Federal Reserve made headlines by adjusting its interest rate target downward on three separate occasions. This shift has left many potential homeowners and current mortgage holders questioning whether relief in the form of lower mortgage rates is on the horizon. The prevailing sentiment voiced by market experts, including Jordan Jackson from J.P.