There’s a lot of confusion in the market about what’s happening with day-to-day movement in mortgage rates right now, but here’s what you really need to know: compared to the near 8% peak last fall, mortgage rates have trended down overall.
And if you’re looking to buy or sell a home, this is a big deal. While they’re going to continue to bounce around a bit based on various economic drivers (like inflation and reactions to the consumer price index, or CPI), don’t let the short-term volatility distract you. The experts agree the overarching downward trend should continue this year.
While we won’t see the record-low rates homebuyers got during the pandemic, some experts think we should see rates dip below 6% later this year As Dean Baker, Senior Economist, Center for Economic Research, says:
“The home is yours You can decorate any way you want and choose the types of upgrades and new amenities that appeal to your lifestyle ”
And Baker isn’t the only one saying this is a possibility. The latest F i M j ti l i di t te below 6% by w):
MortgageRateProjections
If you wanted to move last year but were holding off hoping rates would fall, now may be the time to act.
The chart shows mortgage rate projections for 2024 from Fannie Mae. It includes the one that came out in December, and compares it to the updated 2024 forecast they released just one month later. And if you look closely, you’ll notice the projections are on the way down.
It’s normal for experts to re-forecast as they watch current market trends and the broader economy, but what this shows is experts are feeling confident rates should continue to decline, if inflation cools
WhatThisMeansforYou
But remember, no one can say for sure what will happen (and by when) – and short-term volatility is to be expected. So, don’t let small fluctuations scare you. Focus on the bigger picture.
If you’ve found a home you love in today’s market –especially where finding a home that meets your budget and your needs can be a challenge – it’s probably not a good idea to try to time the market and wait until rates drop below 6%.
With rates already lower than they were last fall, you have an opportunity in front of you right now That’s because even a small quarter point dip in rates gives your purchasing power a boost
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WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CREDIT SCORE MISTAKE?
Thinking You Have To Carry a Balance To Build Credit!
The truth: No, you don’t! You can build a great score without paying interest on your purchases. This misunderstanding does a lot of damage!
Here’s the responsible — and cheap — way to use credit cards:
Have a budgeted amount that will go on your credit card each month
Track your spending so you stay within your card’s budget.
Don’t charge more than 30% of your available credit Keep it below 10% if you want to boost your score quickly.
Pay your bill in full every month and always by the due date
Stick to this plan and you’ll be on your way to an excellent credit score And don’t forget to pay all of your bills on time, not just credit cards.
Let’s face it, with so many breath-taking bathroom ideas to inspire, it’s all too easy to get carried away. Even if you have a healthy budget to play with, it’s always nice to make your precious pennies go as far as possible. Follow our guide to discover when to splash out and when you can afford to be a little more frugal, without compromising your soon-to-be-beautiful new bathroom.
Where To Spend: A Decent Bath
If you’re a ‘bath person’ and relish long soaks, or are looking at master bathroom ideas for a luxurious remodel, the quality and comfort of your bath will have a huge impact on the experience. Cheap acrylic can flex and easily mark; wellreinforced 8mm Lucite is far superior. Better yet, go for composite stone or enamelled cast-iron, which are both reassuringly rigid and long lasting Look for ergonomic design details, such as a chamfered edge or slightly raised level, which support the legs and back so you can enjoy a luxurious soak.
Where To Spend: Brassware
‘Low-quality brassware can deteriorate remarkably quickly in the steamy atmosphere of a bathroom. Any flaws in the finish are quickly exposed, and the moving parts can seize up,’ explains Emma Joyce, brand manager, Riobel at House of Rohl. Long warranties are one of the best indications of quality R ll ll d b ith lit i t l nts
Where To Spend Shower Enclosure
‘Spending more on your shower enclosure can save in the long run. To create a really luxurious showering space, consider high- end features such as soft close hinges, designer handles, PVD brass components, stylish bracing supports and low iron, selfcleaning glass,’ adds David Osbourne, CEO of Roman Showers. Cutting corners could result in costly repairs, not just in the bathroom but also in the room below, which doesn’t bear thinking about Glass thickness is a good indicator of overall quality–aim for at least 8mm
Where To Spend: Layered Lighting
Good bathroom lighting ideas make a real difference to what can be a small space. And while you can certainly get attractive and affordable bathroom light fittings, it’s worth investing a little ‘A cleverly-lit bathroom turns a functional space into one you want to spend time and relax in,’ says Sian Parsons, design associate at John Cullen Lighting. ‘When the general lighting gets turned off, adding a secondary lower level of lighting will turn the ordinary into something special more on a layered lighting scheme on multiple circuits. ‘
Where To Save: Tile
There are so many fabulous bathroom tile ideas available at affordable prices that there’s really no need to go OTT on tiles. ‘Start by considering the tile material. You might love the look of natural stone or encaustic, but porcelain comes in similar designs and is typically more affordable and easier to maintain, too,’ says Grazzie Wilson, creative lead at Ca’ Pietra. If you still have your heart set on expensive tiles, think about more frugal ways of using them instead. In the alcove of a shower recess, for example, or a limited amount behind a backsplash, which will add impact but won’t break the bank.
Black countertops provide a sleek backdrop in any kitchen. Here’s how to make them work in your own home.
ITWORKSWITHANYKITCHENSTYLE
Black countertops are chameleons and can adapt to pretty much any kitchen style whether they’re enhancing an ultra-modern design, adding drama to a farmhouse setting, or evoking a coastal chic or cozy cottage vibe Their versatile nature allows for both an elevated and relaxed aesthetic.
ITCOMPLEMENTSMOSTEXISTINGCABINETCOLORS
Black countertops function as a neutral, creating contrast against white or light cabinets “However black-on-black can be daringly chic, especially in a sleek, modern kitchen,” says Ross Padluck, a partner at Kligerman Architecture & Design. Black countertops can also look earthy and warm against natural or ebonized wood. “I love bringing a look together by mixing an all-black painted wood island, a lighter perimeter cabinet, and a black countertop,” says Laura Bischofberger, a designer at J Banks Design
ITCOMESINTWODIFFERENTFINISHES
A matte finish on a black countertop offers an understated elegance with minimal reflection, while a glossy finish results in a polished, high-end look “A matte usually works best in a more traditional setting, while a glossy surface is sleeker and looks more modern,” says Padluck. With a matte finish, reflected light won’t compete with the details of the stone and will be easier to maintain and hide imperfections.
ITMAKESAROOMFEELBIGGER
Some believe a black countertop will make their kitchen feel smaller. “But it’s actually quite the opposite,” says Maddox. “Black countertops add depth and dimension, opening up and visually expanding a space. ” Maddox suggests choosing a stone with subtle veining, “ as solid black can come off as monolithic,” he says
ITSHINESINTHERIGHTLIGHT
Strategic illumination of pendant lights, undercabinet lighting, and statement chandeliers is important when you have dark countertops “The key is balancing ambient and task lighting to enhance visibility and prevent the kitchen from feeling too dark, along with using under-cabinet lighting and pendant lights to illuminate and accentuate the space, ” says Cloud. If you ’ re implementing LEDs, experts suggest using warm, white 2700K bulbs “The last thing you want is for your kitchen to feel like an operating room, ” shares Padluck.
ITWORKSWELLWITHNEUTRALS
Whites, grays, and muted colors all create a balanced backdrop when it comes to black countertops. “It’s called neutral harmony, where you allow the countertop to shine without overwhelming the space, ” says Carline A variety of flooring can be paired with black countertops from ebony wood to black and white marble. “I love a white oak floor and a bone white wall with black countertops,” shares Christina Kim, the owner and principal of Christina Kim Interior Design.
IT'SLOW-MAINTENANCE
Black countertops will show fingerprints and smudges more, especially under bright lights and in glossier finishes “Look to textured materials to help hide smears, ” suggests Ballard “Something like Absolute Black polished granite requires very little maintenance.” Adds Cloud, “The good news is dirt and crumbs don’t show up on black countertops as much.”
ITNEVERGOESOUTOFSTYLE
A black countertop can be timeless, but it’s important to update any finishes to keep things fresh “Replacing cabinet hardware, for example, is one way to do so, ” says Ballard. “It’s all about incorporating finishes that are trending to keep black countertops feeling current.”
