Existing Home Sales Down in January but Higher than a Year Ago; Prices Steady

Washington, February 26, 2010 - Existing-home sales fell in January but are above year-ago levels, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Existing-home sales – including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops – dropped 7.2 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate1 of 5.05 million units in January from a revised 5.44 million in December, but remain 11.5 percent above the 4.53 million-unit level in January 2009.
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Source: realtor.org

National Association of Realtors Launches New Consumer Website

RISMEDIA, February 18, 2010—The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) announced the launch of HouseLogic, a new, comprehensive consumer website about all aspects of homeownership. HouseLogic helps homeowners make smart decisions and take responsible actions to maintain, protect and increase the value of their homes.
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Source: rismedia.com

Fourth Quarter Existing-Home Sales Surge in Most States, Prices Up in More Areas

WASHINGTON, February 11, 2010 - Strong gains in existing-home sales were the predominant pattern in most states during the fourth quarter, with many more metro areas seeing prices rise from a year earlier, according to the latest survey by the National Association of Realtors®. Sales increased from the third quarter in 48 states and the District of Columbia; 32 states saw double-digit gains. Year-over-year sales were higher in 49 states and D.C.; all but three states had double-digit annual increases.
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Source: www.realtor.org

The Basics: Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit 2009/2010

Bringing the Dream of Homeownership Within Reach.
As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market and address the economic challenges facing our nation, Congress has passed new legislation that:
•• Extends the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers until April 30, 2010.
•• Expands the credit to grant up to $6,500 credit to current home owners purchasing a new or existing home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.
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Source: www.realtor.org

5 Reasons Why Refinancing May Be a Good Option Now

RISMEDIA, February 4, 2010—Mortgage experts from Bills.com, one of the leading resources for free, objective and expert money advice, advised that consumers considering a home refinance should begin the process now. Further, the company reported that the most frequently asked question of its Ask Bill expert advice center concerned home refinancing rates and recommendations.
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Source: www.rismedia.com