Mortgage Rates on the rise?

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Mortgage Rates Jump to 6-Month High: "Mortgage rates rose for a fourth-straight week to reach a six-month high as yields on government bonds continue to rise. The average interest on a 30-year fixed loan hit 4.61 percent, up from 4.46 percent a week ago, Freddie Mac reported.

Also, 15-year fixed loans averaged 3.96 percent, up from 3.81 percent last week; and rates for variable adjustable-rate mortgages floated higher as well."

Alice's comment: Interest rates are still at historically low levels, but if you are thinking of purchasing a home anytime soon, you would be wise to keep an eye on the rates, as they are inching upward. If you have questions about how much a quarter point change in interest rates would affect your monthly mortgage payment, give me a call. 206-708-9800.

Energy Saving Tips for Holiday Lighting

Holiday lighting is a wonderful tradition, and these tips will help to keep you and your family safe. Use care not to overload your circuits. Do not run too many strings together, the amount of lights on string that can safely be connected differs for each type of light. Read and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Carefully inspect each string for frayed insulation, loose connections or broken bulbs. Never plug in a string that has bulbs broken open, as the interior filament is a electrocution hazard. Only use lights outdoors that are approved for outdoor use.


Above is a brief intro to some helpful information about holiday lighting from my friends Suzanne and JJ Greive at Home Inspections of Puget Sound. Click on the title to go to the full article.