Consumer sentiment in housing did improve in August, according to a monthly survey from Fannie Mae, but only because of a big jump in the share of those who think mortgage rates will keep falling.




Fewer people think now is a good time to buy or sell a home, and fewer said they are not concerned about losing their job in the next year.




“I definitely think it has softened a bit,” said Kelley McMahon a Dallas-area agent with Compass. “It’s not a seller’s market right now. Now is not the time for sellers to put out these crazy prices. Appraisals have gotten a lot harder, and buyers are a little more cautious. They’re more willing to take their time.”



Mortgage rates are around the lowest in three years, but buyers are suddenly much more cautious about purchasing a home. Competition is cooling, and consequently sellers can no longer command any price.
Consumer sentiment in housing did improve in August, according to a mont ...

1. Borrowing Becomes More Expensive

The Fed's key policy rate only applies to overnight lending between banks out of their reserves held at the Fed. In other words, it doesn't affect consumer or (non-bank) business borrowing directly, but the distinction is academic, because it is so closely linked to rates that do affect these borrowers directly.
Home loans are tied directly to Treasury Yields. If the Treasury shoots up then expect higher interest rates on Mortgages. 
2. Deposits Yield More … Eventually

Higher borrowing costs also apply to banks, which take loans from savers in the forms of deposits. In other words, the savings account that currently pays out a few bucks a year – if that – will become more generous.

3. Trouble for Stocks and Bonds



Fed tightening to rising 10-year Treasury yields, which he said could reach the psychologically important level of 3% in the next year. A sell-off in government debt could accelerate the bear m ...

1. Waiting a few months to buy may result in waiting a few years to own.
We all wish we had that crystal ball to glance into and see when the interest rates were going to increase so waiting it out could cost you some buying power. Like we have been told for year there is NO time like the present. 
2. Concentrate on resale homes or quick move-in construction.
New construction inventory is at an all time high in the area since the bubble burst. Now is the time to take advantage of the available homes and the great incentives being offered.

3. Sellers who wait to list might wait to sell.
We all know the winter time is not the best time to be listing a home but if you have a request to show the buyers tend to be serious and ready to pull the trigger. 
4. Buying down an interest rate might be a good idea.
Personally I believe this is going to be #1 in 2019. I have started to see this as an option to move some of the new construction homes. Trust me they do NOT want to ca ...

December is known to be a slow month in home sales, but the top real estate agents don't let that affect their productivity. As winter approaches and Homebuyers put their house hunting on hold for the season, real estate agents may see their leads slow down, but that doesn't mean they should sit back and wait for spring to set the real estate market back on track. There is always plenty to do, and the individuals who plan best during the slow season may the ones who benefit most come spring. It can be helpful to see slow winter days as opportunities rather than setbacks. With a little extra effort and real estate marketing knowledge, realtor agents can set up leads for now as well as later, when the temperature begins to rise and Homebuyers hit the market again.

1. Stay up-to-date on local market activity
A slowdown doesn't mean a complete stoppage - there may still be homes on the market. Preview homes that are still listed to show people that you're paying attention and to k ...

Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and listed on the prestigious Audubon Trail, Santa Maria Golf Course is built on 150 acres of rolling terrain, featuring 18 lakes and two natural waterways. This is the perfect memorable setting to test your golf skills, complete with sand bunkers, exquisite Bermuda fairways and mature oaks.


The 18-hole course measures 6,969 yards in length from the championship tees. The Spanish-style clubhouse includes a pro shop, a full-service restaurant and a private conference/dining room and fitness center. Champions Grill overlooks the beautiful par-five finishing hole, and you’ll want to stop in for a meal or drinks after your round.


Santa Maria Golf Course has a history of being recognized as one of the best public golf courses in southeast Louisiana; having received Golf Digest’s highest ranking for a municipal course. It is conveniently located one mile off historic Highland Road near I-10.


Improvements to Santa Maria& ...