Refinancing May Be Better in 1996
New York AP notes falling rates could boost 1996 mortgage refinancing. If 30 year rates dip toward 6 percent, many homeowners may reconsider loans, with motives from lowering payments to shortening terms. Ernst & Young advises evaluating payback period and staying power in home, not just rate drops.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
New York
Federal Reserve
Ernst & Young
Regular Roof Inspection To Prevent Water Damage
Homeowners should inspect roofs in spring and fall using simple tools. Look for leaks in the attic after rain, missing shingles, cracked flashing, and clogged gutters. For decayed rafters or large areas of damage, hire a qualified roofing professional.
Uncertain year ahead for Maryland homebuilders
The Homebuilders Association of Maryland foresees a contentious year due to federal budget cuts and economic impact. President John P. Martonick warns lenders may hesitate on loans, while multi-family projects could rebound as vacancy rates drop. He notes industry employment and taxable income, and urges better public communication of the industry's value.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Baltimore
Homebuilders Association of Maryland
John P. Martonick
Maryland
Martonick
Multi- Properties Inc
Pikesville
Nathanson
Anne Arundel
Carroll
Harford
Howard Counties
New home construction falls in October signaling slowed housing
October starts dropped 3.7 percent to a 1.34 million annual rate, the third straight decline, with permits down 0.7 percent. The drop hit apartments and single family homes, while regions varied from modest gains in the Northeast to steep cuts in the Midwest and West.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Washington
Commerce Department
David Lereah
Mortgage Bankers Association
Robert R Davis
America
National Association of Home Builders
David F. Seiders
Midwest
West
South
Rx for remodelers expert advice to create dream kitchens
Remodeling can be costly yet worthwhile with design pros saving time money and headaches. Designers guide color patterns materials and accessories and act as collaborators guiding non structural work while architects handle structural needs for new builds.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Gen Mally
Max
Philadelphia
Irene Black
Houston
Sandy Astrup- Ustick
ASTIC
At Home with Hardwoods guidance for designers and buyers
The Hardwood Manufacturers Association offers tips for selecting design pros and balancing budget with smart planning. Learn to interview designers, define project goals, and consider design fees as an investment. Contact ASID for credits and get resources from HMA at freewood information line.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Ing
Hardwood Manufacturers Association
Astrup-Astick
American Society of Inteuior Designers
ASID
ASTIC
Wah
Penn Center
Property values rise in Maryland reassessments
Maryland reassessments show an average 1.3 percent statewide rise in property values, with higher gains in the early 1990s. University of Baltimore economist Michael Conte calls it a positive sign and anticipates a 1996 pickup, while some builders caution that near-term optimism may be limited by budget pressures and regulations.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Baltimore
Maryland
University of Baltimore
Michael A. Conte
Ramsay Flynn
O’conor
Piper & Flynn Real Estate Agency
John P Martonick
Home Builders Association of Maryland
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L & T Shaped
Rhoseamtewige
Frederick, M
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WLYTH
Ronald W Wineholt
State Department of Assessments
San-di-Gan
Runa Eed
Frederick News-Post
Fcnb Bank
F & M Bank