Survey: What it Takes to Buy a Home in 25 US Cities

Atlanta skyscrapersThe mortgage research firm, HSH.com gathered data from 2012’s second quarter to use in a recent survey regarding home prices in 25 of the nation’s metro areas. Information on median home prices was taken from the National Association of Realtors and HSH.com supplied the figures for calculating a 30-year fixed rate mortgage. The firm conducted a similar survey in early 2011. Comparatively, it was discovered that with the combination of very low mortgage rates and falling prices, in many areas, home affordability is up dramatically.

Here’s a look at a few of the metro areas covered in the study (Note: interest rates are subject to change and will vary by lender):

 Atlanta was the most affordable of all the 25 metros surveyed. An annual income of $15,202 is what it would take to be an ATL homeowner. Affordable median home prices around $103,200.00 and a 3.97% mortgage rate make the prospect of home ownership very attractive!

Cleveland offers some truly great bargains in the Midwest. Single-family homes are averaging $103,900.00. If you act quickly, you could lock in on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage at about 3.9% with a yearly income of $15,176.00. (Actual rates will vary by lender). [Read more...]

Fannie Mae Works to Help End Homelessness in Several Large U.S. Cities

House along street in nice neighborhood. Information on Fannie Mae's fight against homelessnessBuilding on a 25-year commitment to end homelessness in Washington, D.C., Fannie Mae introduces a prevention program to five new cities.

According to a recent press release, Fannie Mae’s Help the Homeless (HTH) Program has made a meaningful difference in addressing the issue of homelessness across the Washington, D.C. metro area. This year, HTH is expanding its reach by introducing its model for homelessness prevention to five additional cities and beneficiaries.

The five cities and corresponding charities that will benefit from Fannie Mae’s HTH program are…

Atlanta: Nicholas House
Chicago: Hesed House
Dallas: The Bridge
Philadelphia: The Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service & Education Center
Los Angeles: United Way of Greater Los Angeles

“Building on twenty five years of commitment to ending homelessness in our hometown of Washington, we’re very pleased to introduce our Help the Homeless model to five more cities,” said Rosie Allen-Herring, Senior Director, Office of Community Investment and Engagement for Fannie Mae. “We’re proud to partner with leading organizations and Fannie Mae employees to serve their communities and assist the homeless.  We are looking forward to continuing the program’s success in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Philadelphia and Los Angeles.”
[Read more...]