home ownership: 10 Home Features Buyers Want
- 02/05/10 05:52 AM
10 Home Features Buyers Want Home designers and builders speaking at the recent International Builders Show in Las Vegas say that buyers are seeking cost-effective features and rejecting things that don't have lasting value."It's all about family togetherness - casual living, entertaining and flexible spaces," says Carol Lavender, president of the Lavender Design Group in San Antonio. Paul Cardis, CEO of Avid Ratings, which conducts an annual survey of buyer preferences, identified these must-haves in new homes:1. Large kitchens with islands2. Energy efficiency, including energy-efficient appliances, super insulation, and high-efficiency windows.3. Home offices4. Main-floor master suite5. Outdoor living space6. Ceiling … (0 comments)
home ownership: Tough FHA Down Payment Rules
- 01/22/10 05:35 AM
The Federal Housing Administration will raise the minimum down payment requirement for the least credit-worthy borrowers with credit-rating scores below 580 to at least 10 per cent. Borrowers with a credit score baove 580 willbe able to continue to put down only 3.5%. FHA will also increase its upfront mortgage insurance premium from 1.75 percent to 2.25 percent. The agency is expected to seek congressional approval to raise annual mortgage insurance premiums, paid by borrowers over the life of the loan, above the current 0.55 percent maximum. The amount it will seek has yet to be announced. Ever more reasons to … (0 comments)
10 Home Features Buyers Want 
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