13 Tips to Make Moving Slightly Less Hellish

Source: The Atlantic   Buying a new home is an opportunity to celebrate, but the thought of moving boxes and packing up one’s belongings can put a damper on the experience. After all, moving is never fun. But the Atlantic consulted some experts for their advice on how to make the process more bearable. For instance, it’s recommended that you designate a “first night” box so you have the essentials you need readily available when you finally get your possessions to their new home. Tips are categorized by pre-moving, packing, and unpacking. Read the full story

Homeowners Caught in Affordability Squeeze

Even with rising home prices over the past few years, many homeowners who have considered selling are deciding not to because they are caught in an affordability squeeze that is compounded by a lack of inventory, according to findings from C.A.R.’s “2015 Survey of California Homeowners.” More than one-third (35 percent) of homeowners have considered selling their home in the past year, and of that share, about two-thirds (64 percent) are reluctant to sell because they are finding they can’t afford the home they really want, the survey found. C.A.R.’s inaugural Survey of California Homeowners also found that more than half (59 percent) of homeowners have not seriously considered selling their home in the past year, with more than half (60 percent) saying their current home will be their retirement residence. For those who have been in their home 15 years or more, that figure rises to 70 percent who indicated they have not considered selling because their current residence will be their retirement home.  More info

Attracting Young, Diverse Mortgage Bankers

Source: New York Times

 Is the mortgage industry prepared for a younger, more diverse market? Not according to Dan Stevens, CEO of the Mortgage Bankers Association. However, just getting young people interested in the business is a challenge, because of the stigma around mortgage bankers from the recent housing market collapse. Some firms are offering opportunities for younger Americans via training programs, which for many participants is a welcome opportunity to develop new skills. More companies will have to prepare for the coming shift in demographics among home buyers.
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Four Homeownership Myths to Avoid

Source: CNN Money

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, so you might want to talk to your REALTOR® for advice and also consider whether or not you’re getting stuck on one of these common real estate myths before signing on the dotted line. For instance, remember that you’re buying a home to suit both your future needs and your current ones, so if you want to travel in the future, a home with a lot of outdoor upkeep may not be wise. In addition, it may be best to purchase a home based on your family’s budget and needs, not your guesses about what the future may or may not hold regarding the market.
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