Interest Rates How Low Will They Go?

Conventional thought is that rates will start to rise again as the stock market makes a strong comeback after the recent sell off.

However the jobs statistics and unemployment figures look good so there is a continued fear about inflation. There is also major concern about the subprime loan market as more and more companies face some major problems.

So in answer to the posed question... no one knows! Rates took a dive today after expectations that they might begin moving up again. And who knows what the bond market is doing. It seems to have a life of its own.

My advice to all of you who have loans coming due.. get new fixed financing.. if not for 30 years then try for 5-10 years.

If you are thinking about buying.. it's not likely to get much cheaper.... so now might be a good time to check on rates and decide if the time is right. I'm not seeing any massive declines in prices around the beach and the cheap money will not last forever.

Staging: A New Twist on an Old Marketing Idea

If you are not familar with the term staging you soon will be...especially if you plan on selling your home in the near future. We all know that the first 30 days of marketing a home are the most important. If the home is well priced, in good shape in a good location this is when the most excitement is generated. Think of it like going on a first date. We want to make a great impression. We want to be seen at our best. This is the time frame when staging is most effective.

Anyone who has visited a new home tract has seen staging. Many people visit new homes to pick up ideas on colors, cabinetry, new trends, and ideas about furnishings. Until recently the model home appeal was only available to those in the trade, those with lots of money or who had connections. For the normal seller the cost of having someone come into your home was prohibitive and sellers relied on an experienced agent to help guide them on the best ways to spruce up their homes. An experienced agent can offer many valuable tips on marketing your home but we just don't have the resources of a good stager. My favorite stager has a vast array of accessories and furniture at her fingertips.

Today there are a number of stagers available for consultation with homeowners. The prices vary as to services offered and the needs of the job. If you just need furniture rearranged and better placement of pictures and decorating items prices are very reasonable. For larger projects that require new paint, landscaping and adding furnishings and decor the price rises based on the amount of services needed.

Whatever your needs obtaining the services of a good stager can add thousands of dollars to your bottom line.